Rebecca Anyah Yakubu is a polio survivor, from Angware, in Jos East local government of Plateau state. She is one of the seven children of her Parents and the only one with disability.She is single and she has lost her father who was a retired Army officer.
In a chat with our correspondents, Bulus Bala Izang and Joshua Yenle, she talked about her education, her vocation and how she can promote it to be more lucrative.
TQM. Can you let us into your educational life ?
Yes, l attended School for the Physical Handicap and Rehabilitation Center, Sabon layi , in Mangu local government and Mwansat Secondary school also in Mangu local government of Plateau state.
After completion, l got admission into College of Education Kangere Bauchi, in Bauchi State. Where l obtained, a diploma certificate in Social Development.
TQM. How did you financed your education up to diploma level?
I would say, after the death of my father, to a large extent, my mother paid for my education.
TQM. Having completed your diploma program , what are you doing for a living?
I am into making of shampoos, hair creams, liquid detergents and knitting of sweaters for both adults and children which l sell for income.
TQM. Do you have any form of mockery or discrimination from people around you because of your Disability?
I have been having a lots of mockery, even though, mostly not direct, but a close observation of certain words or actions would let you know that they are targeted at me.
TQM. In situations like this, how do you take it?
I do nothing, but l have resolved within me long time ago, by the grace of God, l would not allowed any form of provocation or discrimination, because of my Disability, to make me to loss self control or become discourage in life. I have God’s love and grace to live my life.
TQM. You are a lady with disability, what have you consider to be the common challenges of ladies with disabilities in your community?
Most of us are alone, especially those of us in the villages, we find it difficult to have someone who we can sincerely discussed or share our problems with, people usually don’t have time for us. And mostly, people that come close to us, are only doing so to take advantage of our conditions and situations in various ways.
TQM. After you educational program, Have you applied some where for possible employment?
Yes, l have, but up till now , l have not been considered for employment. Employers of labours, including government, especially, here in Plateau state and Jos East local government, they don’t want anything much to do with people with disabilities in terms of employment, they would not employed us and they would not give us special package to start something on our own. Like other States are doing , Gombe state, for example, who are giving certain sum of money to their indigenous people with disabilities for up keep, to protect the dignity of these people with disabilities, irrespective of their educational status.
TQM. Do you have any personal appeal to the governments and private individuals?
I am appealing to the government at various levels and individuals to help me with knitting machine and capital to expand my business, or help me with employment. I would also appreciate scholarship to go back to school.
TQM. Thank you Miss. Rebecca, it have been nice talking with you.
It is nice talking with you also.
