Students of Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti, have displayed remarkable talent and resilience at the 2nd Biennial Inter-House Sports Competition, reinforcing the importance of inclusive education in the state.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, urged parents to provide necessary care and educational support for children with special needs. Represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Social Inclusion, Alhaji Suleman Fatai, she stressed that children with disabilities should not be sidelined, noting that with the right support, they could excel in various fields.
Princess Agboola commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his administration’s commitment to social inclusion, describing it as a game-changer for children with disabilities. She emphasized that the sports competition served as a reminder that children with special needs could thrive and contribute meaningfully to society when given an enabling environment.
Chairman of Eso-Obe Local Council Development Area, Mr. Kole Ayeni, also lauded the school’s management for ensuring inclusivity in education. He noted that the event underscored the state government’s dedication to the welfare of special needs students.
Similarly, Chairman of the Board of Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, Dr. Femi Thomas, described the competition as a platform to showcase students’ abilities, while the Wife of the Olukoro of Ikoro-Ekiti, Olori Veronica Adeleye, highlighted its role in boosting their confidence.
Principal of the school, Mrs. Olaide Adu, expressed appreciation for the state government’s continued support and called for more sporting equipment to further develop students’ athletic potential. The event featured various activities, including march past, relay races, cultural dance, and choreography, highlighting the students’ enthusiasm and determination.