By Ogunbayo Oluwaseyi, Ogun
In the heart of Adigbe, Abeokuta, Ogun State, a new chapter was written in the lives of many special needs children at the Daniel Akintonde Model School For Children With Special Needs.
This beacon of hope emerged on Friday, 31 May, 2024, through the tireless efforts of the New Era Initiative for Persons with Disabilities, an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.
The Teachers, and students had gathered for a special event that promised to make a significant impact on their educational journey. The New Era Initiatives, known for its commitment to inclusivity and support, organized a distribution of essential educational materials to the students.
The President of the organization, Adeyinka Adekunle’s speech was filled with inspiration and hope, highlighting the importance of education for all, regardless of their abilities.
“We believe that every child, regardless of their physical or mental challenges, deserves the right to quality education. Today, we are here not just to distribute exercise books and biros, but to show our commitment to supporting your dreams and aspirations,” Mr. Adekunle declared, his voice resonating with passion.
Volunteers from the New Era Initiatives, alongside school staff, handed out brightly colored exercise books, packs of biros and a novel titled Chronicles of the Undesirable-Nimi the warrior girl by another lady with disability Abiose Falade to each student. The delight on the children’s faces was palpable as they received their new supplies, symbols of a brighter educational journey ahead.
Among the recipients was Rokibat Arogundade, a bright-eyed girl with excellent in her courses.
“I can’t wait to use these material for my study,” She said.
Like Rokibat Arogundade, many other children at the school had unique talents and interests that these new supplies would help nurture.
INN reports that the event also included interactive sessions where volunteers engaged with the students, discussing their dreams and how education could help them achieve those goals. These interactions were not just about handing out materials but also about understanding and supporting the children’s aspirations.
The head teacher of the school Mrs Bukola Idowu expressed her gratitude, recognizing the significant impact of this initiative.
Mrs. Idowu, lauded the gesture shown by the group who are mainly persons with disability.
She said “this gesture from New Era Initiative is more than just giving books and pens. It’s about showing our children that they are valued and their education matters.”
The New Era Initiatives for Persons with Disabilities had not only provided necessary tools for education but had also ignited a spark of possibility in the hearts of these children.
The event at Daniel Akintonde Model School For Children With Special Needs marked the milestone of a partnership that would continue to support and uplift the students. The New Era Initiatives promised to return with more programs and resources, ensuring that the children’s educational journey would be enriched and their dreams within reach.
In Adigbe, Abeokuta, the day will be remembered as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves the chance to shine.
Other members of New Era Initiative in attendance were Olusola Ayangbola- vice president, Olatunji Alabede- secretary, Oluwatoyin Laose Adekunle- social welfare secretary, Oluwatomisin Adeyefa-Public relations officer, Abosede Olaiya-Treasurer.