Dr Mudi Nwachukwu, Founder of the Special Educational Needs & Therapy Empowerment (SENTE), has called for a future where children with special needs grow into independent, working adults.
In a statement on Sunday in Lagos ahead of the SENTE Conference and Trade Fair, Nwachukwu emphasized that support must continue lifelong—long after the school years end.
As Chair of the SENTE Organizing Committee, she noted that many Nigerian families raising children with special needs face a pressing question: “What happens after school?”
Nwachukwu said the SENTE Conference, scheduled for February 12, would directly address this question and focus on preparing children with special needs for independent and productive adulthood.
She highlighted the struggles many parents and caregivers face with transition planning, employability, independent living, and access to services once their children reach adulthood.
The conference, she explained, is designed to bridge these gaps by providing a practical platform where families can engage experts, policymakers, and service providers on sustainable, lifelong solutions.
According to her, the focus is on action—equipping parents and caregivers with tools and strategies they can apply in their communities.
Nwachukwu disclosed that the event will feature expert-led panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and exhibitions showcasing services, assistive technologies, and innovations tailored to special-needs care and development.
She recalled that the 2025 edition saw strong participation from families, professionals, and advocates, reflecting growing demand for coordinated support systems for persons with special needs.
“Last year’s conference featured discussions on inclusive education, healthcare access, and advocacy, alongside exhibitions by organizations providing therapy, assistive devices, and support services,” she said.
Feedback from participants revealed a clear need to shift the conversation toward adulthood, long-term planning, and economic empowerment.
“Those insights directly shaped the theme and structure of the 2026 conference, with increased emphasis on transition planning and future readiness,” Nwachukwu said.
She stressed that inclusion requires shared responsibility and stronger public-private partnerships to close existing gaps.
Nwachukwu described the conference as a key networking hub where families can connect with service providers and advocacy groups offering long-term support.
She said the event will draw educators, healthcare professionals, social workers, employers, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations to strengthen collaboration on inclusive development.
