By Bashirat Omotosho
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole,SAN, has reaffirmed the University’s commitment to inclusive education with the revival of the Senate Research Grant, a development that has positively impacted 11 visually impaired students of the institution.
The intervention, which focused on improving the academic independence of visually impaired students, was implemented through a nine-week training programme that equipped participants with skills in the use of raised-line paper and the TextVision application for reading and writing.
The project, titled “Empowering Visually Impaired Students at the University of Ilorin: Evaluating the Impact of Reader App and Raised Line Paper on Academic Independence,” was held at the Social Studies Education Seminar Room last Tuesday, (January 20, 2026) led by the Deputy Director of Training at the Centre for Research, Development and In-House Training (CREDIT), Dr Muhinat Bolanle Bello.
Other members of the research team include Prof. Nafisat Adedokun-Shittu from Educational Technology; Prof. Lasiele Alabi Yahaya and Dr Mulikat Mustapha from Educational Guidance and Counselling; Dr Nimota Abdullahi from Educational Management; Dr Hafusat Ameen from Epidemiology and Community Health; Dr Halimah AbdulRaheem from Medical Biochemistry; Dr Mariam Alwajud-Adewusi and Dr Lasbat O. Akinshemoyin from Social Sciences Education, serving as the Chief Facilitator.
Speaking on the project, Dr Bello explained that the beneficiaries had previously faced serious challenges in accessing learning materials and producing written academic work, a situation that affected their academic performance and placed them at risk of dropping out.
According to her, the training exposed the students to practical tools that enhanced their ability to read their own handwriting and write independently, thereby improving their confidence and academic competence.
The programme came to an end on January 20, 2026, with the presentation of certificates to participating students and facilitators.
The renowned academic noted that preliminary assessments indicate significant improvement in the participants’ academic skills and self-reliance.
Dr Bello commended the Vice Chancellor for reviving the Senate Research Grant, noting that the initiative provided the opportunity to implement research-driven solutions with direct benefits to students and the wider University community.
She added that the success of the programme underscored the importance of sustained institutional support for research and innovation aimed at addressing the needs.
Present at the event were the Director of the Counseling Unit, Dr Mulkat Ladi Mustapha, and the Director, Centre for Supportive Services, Prof Hassanat Taiwo Ambali, among others.
