The Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) Youth Section, has set plans to host first ever National Deaf Youth Summit. The event will be organized by Deaf Youth in the country.
This welcome information was disclosed by NNAD Youth leader, Ebuka Okeke, in an interview with Inclusive News Network. The dynamic Okeke, during the interview indicated the Association’s readiness to launch out on the laudable course.
Slated for October 27th – 30th, the Summit is themed: “Repositioning the Nigerian Deaf Youth for Post COVID-19 Era: Challenges and Opportunities”. It’s expected to feature discussions on human trafficking, drug abuse, human rights and access to information in appropriate formats. Others include entrepreneurship and enterprise development, challenges in accessing information on HIV/AIDS , gender based violence, etc.
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Okeke remarked that Deaf people, owing to their disability, face lots of challenges. These challenges range from discrimination to outright neglect.
“Presently, the society is gradually recognizing the importance of those who are the leaders of tomorrow, hence deaf youths need to come together to brainstorm and make deliberate attempts on their rightful place in the society.
Ebuka said: “We plan to organize awareness programs using the media like your organization (Inclusive News Network), TV shows, funfairs and other outlets to showcase the potentials of Deaf persons. Thankfully, we now have a Disability Act signed by President Muhammadu Buhari. The Act is to protect our rights as a unique people. We desire to help these young minds understand their rights and always fight for the same, meanwhile, helping them avoid society’s vices such as drug abuse, humans trafficking etc
Okeke revealed that after the summit, more leadership training will be organized for Deaf Youths in the country.