People with disabilities shouldn’t be denied education opportunities -Wesley University VC

Emmanuel Odey

Vice Chancellor, Wesley University Ondo, Rt. Rev. Prof. Samuel Sunday Obeka has advised that people with disabilities shouldn’t be denied education opportunities in Nigeria.

Speaking with journalists at the National Summit on Deaf Education in Nigeria where he was honoured with a special invitation as a result of his partnership with the Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD), said that people with disabilities are like any other human being created by God of heavens and earth, should be given the same equal education opportunities in Nigeria.

He commended NNAD, for convening prominent scholars, advocates, and experts in dear education around the world to address critical issues concerning the advancement of education for the dear community in Nigeria.

He noted that the summit with the theme; “Empowering the deaf:  Advancing quality education through Nigerian sign language,” comes at the right time to serve as a platform for robust discussions and activities aimed at enhancing deaf education in Nigeria.

The Provost of Gallaudet University, USA, Prof Khadijat K. Rashid, delivered the keynote address, while lead presenters included distinguished figures such as Professor Kyauta Ibrahim of Bayero University, Kano, and Dr. Taiwo Akangbe of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo.

The event, which was a sequel to the successful inaugural summit held in 2012, featured insightful presentations, poster sessions, and networking opportunities with key stakeholders in Deaf Education.

Organized by the Strengthening Deaf Education, Empowerment & Employment (Deaf-E3) team, supported by USAID and led by Gallaudet University, the summit focused on crucial issues such as inclusive curriculum development, the role of Nigerian Sign Language, and community engagement in supporting deaf learners.

Prof Obeka’s participation underscored Wesley University Ondo’s commitment to advancing education and inclusivity, aligning with the institution’s mission to foster academic excellence and societal impact.

His presence at the summit emphasized the university’s dedication to promoting the rights and education of marginalized communities, including the deaf community in Nigeria.