By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
The Kwara State government has approved the admission of visually impaired girls into Queen Elizabeth Secondary School, Ilorin, with free education, feeding, and accommodation.
This move aims to bolster inclusivity in education for vulnerable and less privileged groups.
Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, announced the decision in Ilorin, highlighting the need to include these individuals and give them a sense of belonging.
He emphasized that the policy reflects the government’s commitment to reducing the number of out-of-school children across the state.
Olohungbebe noted that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Four (SDG 4), which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all, without discrimination or barriers to learning.
He said Governor Mallam Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq is passionate about the welfare of people with disabilities and other vulnerable members of society, pointing out that some are currently serving in top government positions, including as a Permanent Secretary in the state civil service.
“This decision is a bold step to guarantee that no child is left behind in Kwara. Every child, regardless of physical challenges, deserves quality education and opportunity.” The Commissioner stated.
He emphasized that the new policy will create learning opportunities for visually impaired girls, promote social equity, tackle exclusion, reduce inequality, and consolidate human capital development across the state.
Olohungbebe urged parents and guardians to see this gesture as an opportunity to improve the quality of life for their vulnerable children, stressing that vulnerability shouldn’t deprive them of a better life.
The Commissioner explained that the government’s action would reduce the dropout rate among visually impaired girls and the associated challenges they face.
He further assured that the state would continue to put the necessary measures in place to ensure the students are in a good condition to enhance their studies and living.
