The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the inclusion and well-being of children who are Deaf or hard of hearing, following a collaboration request from the Yagazie Weng Umezurike Foundation for the Deaf.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Ayuba Burki Gufwan, gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving a delegation from the Foundation at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Gufwan expressed concern over the persistent practice of some parents hiding children with disabilities from society, describing it as harmful to their growth, development, and access to opportunities. He commended the Foundation for its efforts to identify and support children living in isolation, assuring the delegation that the Commission would provide the necessary support within its mandate.
“We have encountered many cases where parents keep children with disabilities away from public view. We commend your Foundation for taking the lead to bring these children out of isolation. The Commission will do everything within its mandate to support your innovative work,” he said.
He also pledged a productive partnership with the Foundation, particularly in advancing inclusive education and developing policies that will improve the lives of children who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Alexander Okoroafor, said the Foundation was established to rescue children who are Deaf or hard of hearing from isolation by providing them with education, assistive devices, and opportunities to thrive. He added that the Foundation would soon present its work plan and programme of activities to the Commission to strengthen future collaboration.
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