The South-West Association of the Deaf (SWAD) has called on the governments of the six South-West states to strengthen access to quality education, employment and social inclusion for Deaf persons across the region.
The appeal was made on Tuesday during a press briefing to herald the 4th South-West Deaf Culture and Arts Festival in Badagry.
Speaking at the briefing, SWAD Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Akangbe, said Deaf persons possess the knowledge, skills and potential to contribute meaningfully to society but continue to face barriers due to inadequate support and communication challenges.
He urged state governments to invest more in the education of Deaf learners by providing accessible learning materials, recruiting qualified teachers and ensuring parents are actively involved in their children’s education.
According to him, improving educational opportunities would empower more Deaf persons to reach their full potential and participate fully in national development.
Dr. Akangbe also called on South-West governments to include Deaf persons in policy formulation and development programmes, stressing that they should be given equal opportunities to contribute to society.
Speaking on the festival, he said the 4th South-West Deaf Culture and Arts Festival is themed “The Deaf of Southwest Nigeria: Preserving and Leveraging Yoruba Culture for Global Impacts.” He explained that the event brings together Deaf participants from across the South-West to celebrate Yoruba Deaf cultural heritage, showcase their talents, promote unity and advocate greater inclusion.
He added that participants would take part in cultural displays, artistic performances, educational sessions, sporting activities and networking programmes aimed at strengthening the Deaf community while preserving Yoruba traditions.
Also speaking, former SWAD Chairman and Coordinator, Mr. Omotola Ezekiel, appealed to state governments to create more employment opportunities for qualified Deaf persons, noting that many Deaf graduates possess the skills needed to contribute across various sectors beyond the teaching profession.
Meanwhile, Dr. Agatha Olaniyi of Osun State called for the documentation and preservation of Yoruba Sign Language, describing sign language as a vital component of Deaf culture and identity. She urged governments and relevant stakeholders to support efforts to develop and preserve indigenous sign language for future generations.
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