The Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, has reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of people living with disabilities in the state.
Mrs. Agboola made this declaration during the 2024 celebration of the National Association of Special Teachers (NASET) Ekiti State Chapter, which took place at the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti.
The event gathered teachers from various special schools across the state to deliberate on the theme “Inclusion: Pros and Cons.” Notable dignitaries in attendance included the State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Adebimpe Aderiye, and the Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University (BOUESTI), Prof. Victor Adeoluwa.
Highlighting the strategies to enhance special education for children with disabilities, the Special Adviser emphasized the importance of providing quality education tailored to the unique needs of every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
She underscored the significance of employing specialized techniques to unlock the potential of children with disabilities and foster their academic, social, and emotional growth.
Key strategies discussed at the event included Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), Differentiated Instruction, Accessible Learning Environments, and Specialized Instructional Support, among others.
Mrs. Agboola applauded the significant progress made in terms of enrollment in special schools across the state, attributing it to the enhanced physical and digital learning environments provided by the government.
She urged special educators to view themselves as advocates for an inclusive society where everyone has equitable access to education. Furthermore, she assured the government’s continued support in optimizing services for students with disabilities.
Addressing the challenges of special education in Nigeria, Mr. Akanbi Adekunle, a resource person and guest lecturer at the event, expressed gratitude to the Ekiti State Government for its unwavering commitment to the welfare of people living with disabilities.
Mr. Salami Rasag, Chairman of NASET, commended Mrs. Agboola for her initiatives and efforts since assuming office, pledging the association’s ongoing support towards enhancing the quality and accessibility of education for persons with disabilities in the state.
He also praised Governor Oyebanji for his swift attention to special schools, provision of facilities, and payment of maintenance grants.
The event concluded with the presentation of an award to the Grand Patron of the Association, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, Vice Chancellor of BOUESTI, represented by Prof. Akinwumi Olatunji.