The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has donated a Braille embosser machine to the Federal University Lafia (FULafia) as part of efforts to strengthen inclusive education and improve access to learning for students with visual impairments.
The donation was announced during a strategic engagement between the Commission and a delegation from the university led by Professor Adaka Ahon. The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in advancing tertiary education opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria.
Presenting the machine, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, emphasized the importance of assistive technology in improving communication and learning outcomes for blind and visually impaired students.
He noted that the Braille embosser would significantly support both lecturers and students, describing it as a simple yet highly effective device that does not require specialized expertise to operate.
“This embosser will go a long way in helping both lecturers and students communicate effectively with persons who are blind. Once you can type on a computer, you can easily print in Braille format. We consider this a very necessary assistive device that will help enhance the education of Persons with Disabilities,” Gufwan said.
The Executive Secretary also commended the university’s inclusive policies, describing them as exemplary and worthy of emulation by other higher institutions across Nigeria. He further applauded the Vice Chancellor, Professor Shehu Abdullahi Rahman, for approving subsidised tuition fees for students with disabilities.
In his response, the Vice Chancellor, represented by Professor Adaka Ahon, expressed gratitude to the Commission for the donation, noting the high market value of the embosser machine.
“We are delighted to receive this machine from the Commission. Previously, we only heard about the numerous assistive devices donated by NCPWD to individuals and institutions. This will not only improve communication but also support the accreditation of some courses in the university,” he said.
The engagement concluded with a shared commitment by both institutions to deepen collaboration in policy development, institutional strengthening, and expanded access to quality education for Persons with Disabilities.
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