Children’s Day: Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Special Needs Education, Urges Collective Support
The Lagos State Government has stressed the need for collective responsibility towards children with special needs to enable them enjoy quality education and achieve their God-given potential despite the challenges facing them.
The government also reassured parents of children with special needs that they would not be left behind, noting that their welfare and development have been adequately captured in the THEMES Plus Agenda of the state government.
The State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, gave the assurance in a message delivered at the Children’s Day programme for children with special needs organised by the Inner Wheel Club of Gbagada.
The event, held at Victory Grammar School, off Bank Anthony Way, Abule Onigbagbo, Ikeja, Lagos, had in attendance students from Atunda Olu, St. Patrick, Bethesda, Wesley 1 & 2, and Bola Memorial schools.
The commissioner, who was represented by Dr. Olanike Olutekunbi of Massey Street Children Hospital, congratulated the children and teachers for providing the necessary support and guidance for the pupils.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Inner Wheel Club of Gbagada, Adedoyin Olusoga, described the children as special and wonderful, noting that the Bible acknowledges that they are wonderfully made and marvellous in the sight of God.
She said God does not make mistakes, adding that everyone created by Him possesses unique potential regardless of challenges, while children remain a beautiful gift from God.
According to her, the Inner Wheel Club of Gbagada has remained active in partnering with and supporting the government in improving the quality of life of the people.
She added that the future of the Gbagada branch remains bright because of the quality of initiatives and programmes being implemented by the club.
The District Chairman, D911, Lola Fakeye, also welcomed new members at the event.
Essential items, including materials for students with special needs, were distributed to schools that attended the programme.
