By Chukwunyere Nwosu, INN Abuja
The second day of the NNAD Summit was dedicated to presenting research findings from the six zones of Nigeria and proposing recommendations for deaf education in the country.
The summit underscored the challenges confronting the deaf community in various sectors including employment, interpretation services, skills acquisition, and healthcare. It emphasized the pivotal role of education and skill development in enhancing the lives of deaf individuals. The event provided a platform for deaf Nigerians to exchange experiences, skills, proficiency, and perspectives on deaf education.
During the presentation on Data Findings by Amina Nasiru, it was revealed that research findings were based on interviews and surveys, with a focus on gender sensitivity. The primary aim was to foster stronger relationships between deaf organizations and government agencies for better support. The importance of identifying the unique challenges faced by each deaf individual and engaging in proactive community efforts to address them was highlighted.
The initial phase of the report involved interviews with 94 individuals across three geographical zones, identifying seven key areas of challenge for the deaf community including employment, education, healthcare, and skills acquisition. The subsequent survey phase, with 267 participants, reaffirmed the importance of education and skill development for deaf communities. Recommendations included strengthening relations with deaf individuals through communication and inclusive activities, as well as improving collaboration with government agencies for support.
Dr. Lorne Farovitch, the Executive Director of Global Deaf Research Institute, shared his motivation for founding the organization, spurred by encounters with deaf individuals lacking vital information and access to healthcare. He emphasized a shift from viewing deafness as a medical problem to addressing societal barriers through the social model of disabilities. The institute aims to dismantle systemic inequalities and promote inclusion, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The Deaf Community Research Nigeria project conducted in partnership with various organizations highlighted significant challenges across different domains including socioeconomic factors, communication accessibility, and healthcare. Key findings revealed concerning statistics such as high levels of poverty, limited access to clean water, communication barriers at work, and inadequate healthcare services for deaf Nigerians.
Issues pertaining to sign language interpretation, access to hearing devices and services, healthcare affordability, mental health struggles, and education were discussed comprehensively. The lack of adequate resources for sign language learning and limited access to technology further exacerbate the challenges faced by the deaf community in Nigeria.
Mr. Suleiman Dagbo emphasized the importance of developing appropriate deaf teacher education curriculum focusing on language development and parent involvement. He advocated for the exclusion of irrelevant subjects like speech therapy and highlighted the role of deaf teachers as mentors and guides for deaf students. Prioritizing language skills over speech and integrating Nigerian Sign Language into school curriculums were underscored as essential steps towards inclusive education.
In conclusion, the NNAD Summit served as a platform for illuminating the multifaceted challenges confronting the deaf community in Nigeria and proposing actionable recommendations for improvement. The collaborative efforts of organizations and government agencies are crucial in addressing the diverse needs of deaf individuals and promoting inclusive education and societal integration. By prioritizing education, skill development, and fostering inclusive policies, Nigeria can strive towards a more equitable and accessible future for its deaf population.