Governor Willie Obiano says his administration has offered automatic employment to about forty-two persons with disability in the state.
Governor Obiano stated this while declaring open, the first international Deaf Awareness Week celebration, held in Awka.
The Governor disclosed that efforts are being made to introduce sign language in all secondary schools in the state to facilitate easy communication with the deaf, even as he said that qualified teachers who are deaf will be employed.
Represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Barrister Chukwuka Ezewuzie, Governor Obiano stated that his administration is to make everything possible to give people living with disabilities a sense of belonging and appealed for their support.
The Chairman Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Lawrence Nwanolue, encouraged the participants, to continue to demand for their rights and be united. He noted that the state government has their interests at heart.
In a welcome address, the state Chairman, Nigerian National Association of the Deaf, Mr. Udeagu Ikegbuna, said they will appreciate the efforts, love and care of Governor Obiano by joining millions of the good people of the state to vote massively for him to ensure his second tenure in office.
A resource person, Mr. Promise Nwode in a paper presentation, pleaded with government at all levels to provide deaf people with teaching skills and equipment as it is in a regular school, commending Governor Obiano for his efforts towards that area.
The programme has its theme as “full inclusion with sign language” while presentation of award to Governor Obiano formed the highpoint.