A 94-year-old man, Pa Adedapo Idowu, has taken a bold step towards fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a political scientist by registering for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Determined that age should not be a barrier, Idowu completed his registration at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Professional Test Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State, in hopes of securing admission to the University of Ibadan.
Speaking to newsmen, Idowu expressed his gratitude for the seamless registration process, noting that his initial fears about enrolling at his advanced age had been dispelled. He commended JAMB for its use of technology, particularly the integration of the National Identity Number (NIN), which simplified the process and ensured inclusivity for all applicants, regardless of age or background. He also appreciated the warm reception from the staff, which gave him a sense of belonging.
Encouraging fellow candidates, Idowu emphasized the importance of integrity and professionalism, urging them to reject examination malpractice and embrace honesty in their academic pursuits. He reminded everyone that age should never be a limitation to achieving one’s dreams, stressing the value of perseverance and determination in overcoming life’s challenges.
Meanwhile, the Registrar of JAMB, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing UTME registration process, attributing its success to the dedication and competence of JAMB staff nationwide. He noted that this year’s exercise had been smoother than previous years and commended security personnel for maintaining orderliness throughout the process.
JAMB, however, reiterated its warning to Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres to strictly adhere to registration guidelines. The Board emphasized that UTME registration is an individual process, not a group or school-based activity, to prevent data mismatches and other irregularities. It warned that centres found violating these rules would face sanctions, including possible suspension.
Additionally, JAMB stressed that only candidates who successfully complete biometric verification on the examination day will be allowed to sit for the Mock-UTME or UTME. Parents and proxies are also prohibited from interfering with candidates’ registration to prevent alterations or data mismatches.
Idowu’s determination serves as a powerful reminder that education has no age limit, inspiring many to pursue their dreams despite any obstacles they may face.
