ASHENEWS reports that the Niger State School for Special Education has celebrated this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The day, commemorated every year on the 3rd of December seeks to draw the public’s attention to issues affecting persons with disabilities.
The day also provides an opportunity to advocate for more inclusivity of PWDs in society.
The event brought together students with disabilities, various associations of persons with disabilities, student union leaders, government officials, and non-government governmental organizations working to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Speaking during the event, the Principal of the school, Mrs Justina Iortyer said that the event provides an opportunity to celebrate the abilities of children with disabilities and also draw public attention to their plights.
Iortyer stressed that while education was an important factor in ensuring inclusive participation of PWDs in society, creating livelihood supports, primarily through employment remains key to ensuring that they do not remain vulnerable.
The Director, of rehabilitation services at the Niger State Ministry for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajara Aliyu said that the state government is committed to ensuring the inclusion of all categories of people in the state.
“We are initiating policies and programs that will ensure the inclusion of person with special needs focusing on their education and well-being so they can attain their potential.”
On its part, the National Association of Niger State Students( NANISS) bemoaned the challenges faced by students with disabilities in schools.
Muhammad Ibrahim Buhari, NANISS National Secretary said that students with disabilities still face discrimination alongside accessibility challenges.
Buhari noted that the association which has planned vocational training for students at the school for special education will continue to champion the cause for inclusivity.
“As student leaders, we pledge to call the attention of the government to look into the issues affecting Niger state students.”
