The Disability Rights Advocacy Center (DRAC) is deeply concerned about a recent incident in which the Edo State College of Nursing Sciences withdrew the admission of a female student due to her physical appearance.
The school’s decision, made after collecting 335,000 Naira from the student, not only violates her fundamental human rights but also contravenes Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
The Act explicitly prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including education and employment.
The Edo State College of Nursing Sciences actions undermine the spirit of the Act, which seeks to create a more inclusive and barrier-free society for all persons with disabilities.
DRAC urged the Edo State College of Nursing Sciences to reverse its decision immediately and allow the affected student to continue her education without discrimination.
Furthermore, they called upon the school and other educational institutions to take proactive steps towards creating an inclusive environment that caters to the unique needs of students with disabilities.
In light of this incident, DRAC emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about disability rights and promoting the full implementation of Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
“We encourage individuals and organizations to join us in advocating for the rights of all persons with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities for education, employment, and social integration”.
DRAC will continue to monitor the situation and support the affected student, working closely with other disability rights organizations and legal aid groups to ensure justice is served.
“We remain committed to our mission of empowering persons with disabilities and fighting for a more equitable, inclusive society for all”.
Disability Rights Advocacy Center (DRAC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
DRAC works to create a more inclusive and barrier-free society by advocating for policy changes, raising public awareness, and empowering persons with disabilities to advocate for their
own rights.
