The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), an Islamic rights advocacy group, has called on the Oyo State Government to reschedule the Computer-Based Tests (CBT) for primary school teaching applicants.
MURIC argues that fixing the test on Friday, July 26, 2024, would infringe upon the religious rights of Muslim candidates.
According to reports, over 52,000 applications were received for the 7,000 available teaching positions. The Oyo Government had scheduled the test for Friday, which is a day of congregational prayer for Muslims.
MURIC suggests that the test should be shifted to Saturday, July 27, 2024, or any other day next week to allow Muslim candidates to fully participate without compromising their religious obligations.
In a press statement, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Executive Director of MURIC, expressed concerns about the convenience and fairness of holding the test on Friday. The group believes that allowing Muslim candidates to take a break for Jumu’ah prayer during the test may not be feasible and could put them at a disadvantage.
MURIC also highlights the high rate of unemployment in the state, which has led to an unexpectedly large turnout of applicants. This may result in logistical challenges for the test organizers and further support the need for rescheduling.
The group emphasizes that creating a serene and tension-free atmosphere for candidates is crucial for optimal performance. They argue that Muslim candidates should not be subjected to the stress of leaving the test venue to attend prayers, as it disrupts their focus and puts them at a disadvantage compared to Christian candidates who can remain calm and centered during the test.
MURIC firmly rejects the current arrangement and urges the Oyo Government to consider rescheduling the test to ensure fairness and accommodate the religious rights of Muslim applicants. They suggest Saturday, July 27, 2024, as a suitable alternative.
While acknowledging the importance of separating religion from official matters, MURIC calls for a balance in scheduling events to consider both Fridays and Sundays, allowing for inclusivity and respect for religious practices.
