Visually Impaired Candidates Break Silence Over 2026 UTME Registration Fees
Registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is currently underway across Nigeria, but visually impaired candidates are speaking out about significant challenges they face during the process. Despite the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) having a clear policy of free registration for these candidates, reports indicate that some are still being charged fees and are not receiving accessible study materials. This situation highlights a troubling gap between official promises and the reality on the ground at registration centres, raising serious concerns about fairness and inclusion in Nigeria's university entrance examination system.
Candidate Experiences Reveal Systemic Issues
Interviews with visually impaired candidates have uncovered persistent problems. For instance, Bidemi, a candidate from Lagos, shared her experience at an Abule Egba registration centre. While officials were supportive in guiding her through the process and even escorted her to a bus stop afterward, she reported being charged ₦7,200 for the registration. This fee directly contradicts JAMB's policy, which mandates free registration for visually impaired individuals. Bidemi stated, "They did not give me anything for free, and I paid. I learned later that it was supposed to be free, but I paid alongside the JAMB fee."
Additionally, Bidemi noted that she did not receive the prescribed JAMB text in any accessible format, such as braille or soft copy. She emphasized, "The officials did not give me anything." This lack of accessible materials means that visually impaired candidates may miss out on crucial study resources, putting them at a disadvantage compared to their sighted peers.
Calls for Improved Implementation and Awareness
Visually impaired candidates are now urging JAMB to take immediate action to address these issues. They stress the need for clearer communication of the free registration policy and better distribution of accessible materials nationwide. Bidemi highlighted, "They should provide the text in braille or soft copy so that we do not miss out. If JAMB says registration is free, that information should be made clear everywhere."
The concerns raised by these candidates underscore a broader problem of inconsistency in implementing JAMB's policies at registration centres. As UTME registration continues, with the process having opened on January 26, 2026, candidates from various geopolitical zones have shared mixed experiences regarding costs, duration, and technology reliability at accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.
Broader Context and Implications
This issue is part of a larger narrative about accessibility and equity in Nigeria's education system. The UTME is a critical gateway to tertiary education, and any barriers faced by visually impaired candidates can hinder their academic opportunities. The reports of fees and lack of materials suggest that more robust oversight and training are needed at registration centres to ensure compliance with JAMB's inclusive policies.
As the 2026 UTME registration period progresses, stakeholders are calling for JAMB to enhance its efforts to support visually impaired candidates, ensuring that the examination process is truly fair and accessible for all. This includes not only enforcing the free registration policy but also providing necessary accommodations to level the playing field.
