Abuja, Nigeria – September 27, 2024
In a bold step toward advancing inclusive education in Nigeria, the MimiJane Foundation for Women and Children with Disabilities has presented a comprehensive curriculum designed to cater to the unique learning needs of children with disabilities. The presentation, held during an event in Abuja on Friday, marks a significant stride in ensuring that children with disabilities have access to education tailored to their specific requirements, a crucial element for fostering inclusivity in the nation’s education system.
The curriculum presentation is part of the foundation’s ongoing project, “Development of an Inclusive Curriculum Tailored to the Needs of Girls with Disabilities,” and is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and various educational institutions. Supported by the Urgent Action Fund Africa, this initiative aims to break down the barriers that children with disabilities face in accessing quality education.
A Call to Action for Inclusive Education
The Executive Director of the MimiJane Foundation, Ambassador Beatrice Awala Mube, delivered an inspiring opening remark, urging all stakeholders to unite in their efforts to create a more inclusive society for persons with disabilities. Her message was clear and heartfelt, emphasizing the collective responsibility society holds in fostering an environment that allows everyone to thrive, regardless of their abilities.
“In our little ways, we can make changes that can affect society for good,” Amb. Mube stated passionately. “Disability is not the fault of those who have it; it is not a choice for anyone. We must learn to see disability differently and ensure that it does not have a negative impact on the lives of those affected.”
Her words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have been advocating for disability rights and inclusive education for years. Amb. Mube’s call to action serves as a reminder that achieving true inclusivity is a shared journey, one that requires dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment from all segments of society.
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities Pledges Support
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) expressed its unwavering support for the foundation’s initiative. Representing the commission, Oluchi Anyanwu, the Head of the Gender Desk, praised the MimiJane Foundation for its dedication to improving the lives of children with disabilities. She highlighted the commission’s efforts in ensuring that the rights of women and girls with disabilities are prioritized, noting that the gender unit was specifically created to address their needs.
“We are always dedicated to the rights of women with disabilities, which is why our gender unit was established,” Anyanwu emphasized. “Since the inception of the commission, we have demonstrated the inclusiveness of women with disabilities in all our programs. We are open to collaborations that will further promote and protect the lives of women with disabilities.”
This reassurance of support from the NCPWD adds significant weight to the efforts of the MimiJane Foundation, signaling a strong partnership that is likely to drive the successful implementation of the inclusive curriculum across educational institutions in Nigeria.
A Curriculum Designed for Change
One of the highlights of the event was the detailed presentation of the newly developed curriculum by Comrade Anyabe, an expert in special education. With enthusiasm, he took the audience through the comprehensive structure of the curriculum, explaining how it can be effectively applied in both mainstream and specialized educational settings. According to him, the curriculum is not just about providing an education but ensuring that children with disabilities are equipped with the tools and opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive alongside their peers.
He emphasized that the curriculum was developed with careful consideration of the diverse needs of children with various disabilities. “Our goal is to create an inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and capable of reaching their full potential,” Comrade Anyabe explained. “This curriculum is more than just a document; it is a pathway to a brighter, more inclusive future for our children.”
The MimiJane Foundation intends to actively engage the Ministry of Education to ensure that this inclusive curriculum receives the necessary approval and integration into the educational system. This step is vital in ensuring that children with disabilities across the country have access to an education that meets their needs and empowers them to succeed.
A Collaborative Effort Toward Inclusivity
The event was well-attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from NGOs focused on inclusive education, disability rights advocates, and inclusive schools that have been championing the cause of accessible education for years. Their presence underscored the collective effort required to achieve true inclusivity and the shared commitment to transforming Nigeria’s educational landscape.
The development of the inclusive curriculum by the MimiJane Foundation represents a significant milestone in the fight for equal education rights for children with disabilities. It serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, advocacy, and the unyielding belief that every child, regardless of their ability, deserves the opportunity to learn and excel.
Next Steps and Future Outlook
As the MimiJane Foundation continues its advocacy efforts, the path ahead is clear – securing the curriculum’s approval and ensuring its seamless integration into educational institutions nationwide. With support from government agencies, educational stakeholders, and disability rights organizations, there is a renewed sense of hope that children with disabilities will no longer be left behind in Nigeria’s quest for educational excellence.
In the words of Ambassador Beatrice Awala Mube, “Change begins with each of us. By embracing inclusivity, we are not just changing the lives of children with disabilities; we are building a society that values diversity and recognizes that everyone has something unique to contribute.”
The unveiling of this inclusive curriculum marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward an education system that truly leaves no one behind. The MimiJane Foundation’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join in the fight for a future where all children, regardless of ability, can access quality education and achieve their dreams.
