In a landmark event highlighting the commitment to inclusivity and education, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) unveiled a suite of advanced facilities at the School for the Blind in Gindiri, Plateau State.
This initiative is part of the Commission’s 2022/2023 special intervention project aimed at enhancing the learning environment for visually impaired students.
The vibrant ceremony witnessed the commissioning of a state-of-the-art sickbay, an ICT facility center, and a resource center, all meticulously designed to significantly improve the educational experience for the students. These new additions are set to provide a robust support system, catering to both the health and educational needs of the blind children at the institution.
The Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Dr. James David Lalu, who officiated the event, expressed his deep gratitude for the warm reception from the students. “The joyful songs and heartfelt gratitude from the school community touched me deeply,” he remarked. “The Gindiri School for the Blind has been a beacon of hope and transformation for many, and it is essential that we continue to support and enhance such institutions.”
The new facilities are seen as a significant boost to the school, which has long been a pillar of support for visually impaired children in the region. The state-of-the-art sickbay will ensure that students receive timely medical care, while the ICT facility center and resource center are poised to equip students with essential skills in information and communication technology, as well as artificial intelligence.
Dr. Lalu extended special thanks to President Bola Ahmad Tinubu for his unwavering support and commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. “This initiative is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age,” he noted. He also praised the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) for their significant contribution of 30 brand-new HP laptops, which will play a crucial role in equipping the students with valuable technological skills.
The new ICT center is expected to bridge the digital divide, providing the students with access to modern technology and training that will prepare them for future opportunities in the digital economy. The resource center will serve as a hub for learning, offering a wide range of materials and tools specifically designed to support visually impaired learners.
“The support from President Tinubu and the NCC underscores our collective commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all,” Dr. Lalu emphasized. “Let’s continue to work together to ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”
The event was attended by key stakeholders, government officials, and members of the local community, all of whom expressed their support for the continued development and empowerment of persons with disabilities. The commissioning of these facilities marks a significant step forward in the NCPWD’s mission to foster inclusivity and provide equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
As the students of the Gindiri School for the Blind celebrated the new facilities with songs and expressions of gratitude, there was a palpable sense of optimism and hope for the future. The investments in their education and well-being are set to open new doors and possibilities, ensuring that they are well-prepared to navigate and excel in an increasingly digital world.
The ceremony concluded with a call to action, urging all stakeholders to remain committed to the cause of inclusivity and to continue supporting initiatives that empower and uplift persons with disabilities.
“Thank you to everyone who made this day possible,” Dr. Lalu said in his closing remarks. “Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
