Reiterates President Tinubu’s Commitment to an Inclusive and Equitable Educational System for All Nigerians
By Lanre Oloyede
In a significant move towards fostering an inclusive educational system, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, presented a compelling position paper at a public hearing. The hearing focused on a bill proposing the amendment of the Federal Colleges of Education Act to establish the Federal College of Education (Special) in Dukku, Gombe State.
Speaking passionately, Hon. Abba Isa emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to creating an educational landscape that caters to the needs of all Nigerians, particularly those with special needs. He described the bill as a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing quality education.
The bill, introduced by Hon. Abdullahi El-Rasheed, who represents the Dukku/Nafada federal constituency in Gombe State, envisions the Federal College of Education (Special) in Dukku as a transformative institution. “The Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, when established, will offer specialized courses for teachers and students with special needs,” stated Hon. El-Rasheed. “It will nurture educators equipped with the knowledge and skills to teach children and youth with disabilities, ensuring equality and inclusivity in accessing quality education. This school, the first of its kind in the Northern region, will serve not only Dukku and Gombe State but the entire nation.”
Hon. Abba Isa’s presentation highlighted the bill’s alignment with the national agenda of inclusive education. He underscored the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that provide equal access to education for all Nigerians, regardless of their abilities. “This bill is a critical step towards addressing the pressing challenges faced by Persons With Disabilities and Special Needs in accessing quality education in the country,” he asserted.
The Senior Presidential Aide elaborated on the broader impact of establishing the Federal College of Education (Special) in Dukku. “This institution will be a visionary endeavor aimed at addressing the unique educational needs of students with disabilities,” he said. “It will be the first of its kind in the Northern region, offering specialized courses that prepare teachers to effectively educate and support students with disabilities.”
Hon. Abba Isa called on members of the National Assembly to support the bill, advocating for a collective effort to create a more inclusive future for all Nigerians. “The establishment of the Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, Gombe State, is a groundbreaking initiative that aligns with our national commitment to inclusive and equitable education,” he stated. “This institution will nurture skilled educators, promote educational equity, and foster inclusive learning environments, ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.”
Objectives and Benefits of the Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku
- Nurturing Specialized Educators:
The core mission of the Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, is to develop a highly skilled cadre of teachers proficient in special education. These educators will be equipped to understand and address the diverse needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the same quality of education as their peers. - Promoting Educational Equity:
Education is a fundamental right, yet students with disabilities often face significant barriers to accessing quality education. The establishment of this college is a decisive step towards promoting educational equity. By providing specialized training for teachers, we can ensure that students with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. - Fostering Inclusive Learning Environments:
The college will champion inclusive teaching practices and create learning environments that accommodate the needs of all students. This approach will not only benefit students with disabilities but also promote a culture of inclusivity and acceptance within our educational system and society at large.
Regional and National Significance
The impact of the Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, extends beyond the immediate community. As the first institution of its kind in the Northern region, it will serve as a model and hub for other regions and contribute to the national effort to improve special education. The college will attract students and educators from across Nigeria, fostering a diverse and inclusive educational community.
Hon. Abba Isa’s presentation concluded with a strong appeal to the lawmakers: “Supporting this bill means supporting a brighter, more inclusive future for all Nigerians. The Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, will play a pivotal role in ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.”
The establishment of the Federal College of Education (Special), Dukku, Gombe State, represents a visionary step towards a more inclusive educational system in Nigeria. As the nation progresses towards this goal, the commitment of leaders like Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa and the support of the National Assembly will be crucial in making inclusive education a reality for all.
