Ekiti State Government has reiterated its dedication to ensuring that every child with a disability has access to quality education and essential support services.
This commitment was highlighted by the Director-General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Hon. (Mrs) Olawumi Famuyiwa, during a one-day in-house training organized for leaders of social inclusion and NGOs working with persons with disabilities.
The training, titled *Fundamental Ethics and Proficiency in Providing Support for People with Disabilities in Ekiti State*, was facilitated by the Ekiti State Office of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion.
In her address, Mrs Famuyiwa praised Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his comprehensive approach to supporting children with special needs. She urged participants to maintain high standards of service delivery and innovation in their advocacy for the disabled community.
Emphasizing the importance of community values, Mrs Famuyiwa called on attendees to embrace the Omoluabi ethos, which promotes integrity and communal responsibility, as a means to foster growth in Ekiti State.
She expressed concern about the prevalent “get rich quick” mentality and encouraged the youth to adopt core values such as truthfulness, self-reliance, diligence, and patriotism.
In the same vein, she encouraged the leaders to be good role models, imbibing the virtues of Integrity and humility in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, welcomed the participants and commended Governor Oyebanji for his transformative initiatives in the realm of special education.
Among these initiatives are the recruitment of specialized teachers and caregivers, the provision of monthly stipends for children with severe disabilities, and access to free healthcare services for all individuals with disabilities in the State.
Mrs. Agboola emphasized that the training aims to empower leaders, individuals, and NGOs working with the community of people with disabilities, equipping them with the skills necessary to effect positive change.
Following the meeting, Mr. Oni Femi, Secretary of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWDs) in Ekiti State, spoke to the media, commending Governor Oyebanji for his innovative efforts to improve the lives of people living with disabilities.
He urged the governor to continue his efforts to make life more meaningful for the disabled community in Ekiti.
As Ekiti State continues to prioritize inclusivity and support for all its citizens, the recent training serves as a vital step toward enhancing the quality of life for children living with disabilities and ensuring their right to education.