Maiduguri, Nigeria — Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have issued a heartfelt appeal to both federal and state governments, as well as higher education institutions, to ensure their inclusion in the design and implementation of curricula across the nation’s universities and other tertiary institutions. This call for inclusion, articulated by Malam Muhammadu Umar, Chairman of the PWDs in Borno State, was made during a town hall meeting held in Maiduguri. The meeting, titled “Strengthening Investigative Data-Driven Journalism in the Fight against Corruption in Local Languages in Nigeria,” was organized by Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) with the support of the MacArthur Foundation.
Malam Umar emphasized the critical need for educational institutions to allocate specific admission quotas for PWDs, ensuring that these individuals have equal access to higher education opportunities. He also urged the government to provide special scholarships to PWDs and their children, enabling them to pursue studies in universities and other institutions of higher learning. This appeal underscores the broader challenges faced by PWDs in accessing quality education and the necessary support systems.
During his speech, Malam Umar highlighted the systemic barriers that PWDs encounter within the educational sector, particularly the lack of facilities and resources tailored to their needs. He lamented that many higher institutions in Nigeria do not have adequate infrastructure to support the education of PWDs, thereby limiting their academic and professional potential. This situation, he argued, not only hinders the personal development of PWDs but also contributes to their continued marginalization within society.
Malam Umar’s call for inclusive curriculum design is a significant step towards addressing these challenges. By involving PWDs in the curriculum development process, educational institutions can better understand and cater to the unique needs of these students, ensuring that the learning environment is accessible and supportive. This inclusion would also reflect a broader commitment to equality and social justice, aligning with global standards and best practices.
The town hall meeting also saw a call for governmental empowerment of PWDs, aimed at enhancing their livelihoods and enabling them to support their children’s education. Malam Umar stressed that many PWDs are among the most vulnerable individuals in society, often facing economic hardships that make it difficult for them to afford basic necessities, including education for their children. He urged the government to implement programs that provide financial support and vocational training to PWDs, thus promoting self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
Comrade Hauwa Kuji Hassan, the principal of Borno Special School, echoed these sentiments, praising the efforts of Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. She acknowledged the governor’s significant contributions to improving the facilities and resources available at the school, which serves as a vital educational hub for PWDs in the region. Comrade Hassan commended the state government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education for PWDs, urging other states to follow Borno’s example in prioritizing inclusive education.
The event, which brought together various stakeholders, highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated approach to addressing the educational needs of PWDs in Nigeria. The discussions underscored the importance of not only providing physical access to educational institutions but also creating an inclusive and accommodating academic environment. This includes the development of specialized curricula, the provision of assistive technologies, and the training of educators to better support PWDs.
Moreover, the call for special scholarships for PWDs and their children is a critical step towards ensuring equal educational opportunities. These scholarships would alleviate the financial burdens faced by many PWD families, enabling them to access quality education and improve their socio-economic status. It would also serve as a recognition of the unique challenges faced by PWDs and an acknowledgment of their right to education.
As the town hall meeting concluded, participants expressed hope that the government and educational institutions would heed the call for greater inclusivity. They emphasized that the inclusion of PWDs in the educational sector is not just a matter of policy but a moral imperative that aligns with the principles of equity and human rights.
The appeals made during the meeting serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by PWDs in Nigeria. They highlight the need for continued advocacy and action to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to pursue education and achieve their full potential. The engagement of stakeholders, from government officials to educational leaders and civil society organizations, will be essential in driving forward the necessary changes and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
