Hon. Olufemi Onireti, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has unveiled plans for his annual free Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms initiative, set to benefit candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions in 2025. The initiative, in collaboration with the Ogbomoso Progressive Elite Club (OPEC), aims to support students from public secondary schools, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds.
Qualifying Examination Scheduled for December
In a statement personally signed by Onireti, he revealed that a qualifying examination will be conducted in December to select candidates for the free JAMB forms. “The qualifying exam is set for December. This exam will allow us to select candidates who have better chances of success in the UTME. We want candidates who are relatively good, and we believe that through the qualifying exam, we will achieve that. Our partner, Ogbomoso Progressive Elite Club, is rallying to put things together for its success yet again,” Onireti stated.
To improve accessibility for participants, additional centers for the qualifying exams will be introduced, considering the rising cost of transportation. Onireti noted that OPEC will announce the names of the new centers at a later date.
Focus on Indigent Students
The initiative is particularly targeted at brilliant students from financially disadvantaged families. “We aim to expand opportunities for education among our youths. We are aware that many brilliant students lack the financial support needed to pursue their education. Such individuals we wish to help in our own little way,” Onireti said.
Past Beneficiaries and Additional Support
Onireti’s philanthropic efforts have previously transformed the lives of several students. Beneficiaries who secured university admission through the program were awarded bursaries of ₦50,000 each. Notably, Miss Alabi Helen Omobola, who scored the highest UTME mark in the Ogbomoso zone in 2023 and gained admission to study medicine and surgery at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), had her tuition fees of ₦500,000 fully paid by Onireti.
The initiative also includes free JAMB preparatory classes and ongoing financial support for successful candidates. Onireti assured the continuation of these gestures, stating, “By the grace of God, we will provide free JAMB forms for fifty students, free JAMB classes, and financial support to those who gain admission.”
A Commitment to Benevolence
Hon. Onireti’s annual free JAMB form distribution is part of his broader commitment to alleviating the struggles of the less-privileged. His dedication to improving education access highlights his passion for empowering the next generation through quality education and financial support. This year’s initiative is set to bring hope to more students, ensuring that financial challenges do not hinder their academic dreams.
