The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its collaboration with the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) to strengthen inclusive education and improve accessibility for students with disabilities.
This renewed commitment was the outcome of a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, to the university.
Hon. Gufwan commended FULafia for its proactive steps toward disability inclusion, particularly the establishment of its Centre for Disability Studies, which focuses on creating awareness, promoting accessibility, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into the academic community.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary underscored the importance of adopting non-discriminatory and disability-friendly policies within the university system. He emphasized that students with disabilities can excel in all professions—including medicine—when given equal opportunities.
Responding, FULafia’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Shehu Abdul-Rahman, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that persons with disabilities are considered key stakeholders in the university’s growth and development.
Both parties explored potential areas of collaboration, including advancing advocacy and research through the Centre for Disability Studies and developing a National Access to Work Scheme for persons with disabilities.
A significant proposal during the meeting was the introduction of sign language as a compulsory General Studies (GST) course across Nigerian universities, to foster better communication and national inclusivity.
The Executive Secretary also shared plans to provide FULafia with key policy documents, such as the Procedure for Inclusion and Access for Persons with Disabilities in Pre-Tertiary Education and the Framework for the National Access to Work Scheme for Persons with Disabilities.
“There is ability in disability,” Hon. Gufwan stated. “Every Nigerian student is qualified to study any course, regardless of their ability.”
This partnership is expected to serve as a model for other institutions, advancing inclusive education nationwide.
Join Inclusive News Network WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.