Kurudu, Abuja – July 17, 2025
In a landmark move to advance inclusive education in Nigeria, SafeHost International Academy, Kurudu, Abuja, in collaboration with SafeHost International Initiative, has officially unveiled its Learning Support Unit (LSU) — a specially designed educational wing aimed at supporting children with additional educational and daily life-skill needs.
The unveiling ceremony, held during the Academy’s 7th Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, July 17, 2025, brought together dignitaries, education advocates, parents, traditional leaders, and media partners to witness what has been described as a transformative stride toward inclusive learning.
A Vision of Hope and Inclusion
Addressing the audience, the Proprietor of SafeHost International Academy, Mrs. Ngozi Belolisa, passionately emphasized the importance of the Learning Support Unit, describing it as “a vital arm of SafeHost International Academy” established to cater to neurodivergent children and others living with cognitive, developmental, and physical disabilities.
“Our LSU is created to meet the unique needs of children who process information and engage with the world differently. These children are capable of learning, playing, and thinking creatively — just not always at the same pace or using the same methods as others,” Mrs. Belolisa explained.
Neurodivergent children, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia, among others, will benefit from individualized education and care plans (IEPs) tailored to their strengths, learning styles, and developmental pace.
Emerald, Gold, Diamond, and Topez: A New Learning Experience
The LSU is made up of four creatively named classrooms — Emerald, Gold, Diamond, and Topez Classes — each designed to reflect uniqueness and potential. These classrooms are led by specially trained educators in the field of special education.
“We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all,” said Mrs. Belolisa. “Our teachers use specialized teaching strategies, visual aids, sensory supports, and communication tools to help each child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”
Boarding and Day Facilities with 24-Hour Care
To cater comprehensively to the needs of families, SafeHost accommodates both day and boarding students. According to the Proprietor, the boarding facility offers round-the-clock care through trained caregivers who oversee hygiene, feeding, routines, and emotional well-being, thereby reinforcing the academy’s belief in consistent and structured support across all settings.
Functionality Over Formality: A New Approach to Learning
In what may be a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s educational landscape, SafeHost International Academy adopts a “Functionality Over Formality” model of education. The approach moves away from conventional measures of academic success, such as reading and writing alone, and instead focuses on helping children acquire real-life skills and social adaptability.
“We believe in functional education — preparing children not just to pass exams, but to live meaningful lives, relate to society, and be as independent as possible,” the school emphasized.
Where Inclusion is the Culture, Not a Choice
Mrs. Belolisa affirmed that inclusion is not just a program but the culture of the school. “At SafeHost, inclusion is not an option, it is the only option. We’ve built a community where every child feels valued, accepted, and seen.”
To make this dream a reality, the school has perfected the practice of inclusive education through:
- Inclusive Classrooms: Children with and without disabilities learn side-by-side.
- Teacher Collaboration: Special educators work in synergy with mainstream teachers.
- Peer Support: All students are taught empathy, patience, and mutual respect.
- Inclusive Events: Children from the LSU fully participate in school events, ensuring full representation and visibility.
“We believe inclusive education is a right, not a privilege. Every child matters and every child must be seen,” Mrs. Belolisa said with passion, urging the public to support the fight against discrimination and the exclusion of children with disabilities.
A Day of Celebration and Color
The graduation ceremony itself was nothing short of a visual delight. From beautifully adorned students in vibrant outfits to performances in drama, poetry, taekwondo, and dance — the day showcased the brilliance and potential of every child, especially those from the Learning Support Unit who proudly performed alongside their peers.
The high point of the event was the formal unveiling of the newly built LSU building by the Igwe of Karu, a traditional ruler whose presence added cultural prestige and community validation to the event.
Celebrating Champions of Inclusion
To crown the event, awards were presented to individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth and success of the school over the years. One of the recipients was Comrade Agbo Christian Obiora, Executive Director of The Qualitative Magazine, who was honored for his outstanding media coverage and commitment to disability-inclusive reporting.
As the ceremony drew to a close, it was clear that SafeHost International Academy had not only graduated a new set of students but also raised the bar for what it means to be a truly inclusive institution.
From all of us at The Qualitative Magazine, we say congratulations to all the graduating children and kudos to SafeHost International Academy for championing a future where no child is left behind.
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