The Edo State Government has restated its commitment to strengthening the Education Sector, with particular focus on inclusivity and improved infrastructure to guarantee access to quality education for all, including children with special needs in the State.
The disclosure was made by the Edo State Head of Service (HOS), Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, while receiving members of the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET), who paid a courtesy visit on his office at the Government House in Benin City. He commended the patience, resilience and dedication of the special needs teachers in helping pupils and students with disabilities to reach their full potentials, and assured them that the State Government remains committed to improving their welfare.
Responding to their requests, the Head of Service urged NASET to provide a clear demographic outline of existing special needs schools and to highlight critical vacancies that require immediate filling. He acknowledged the need for utility support such as school buses, hostels and an increment in special allowances, assuring them that their concerns would be given due consideration in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to building an inclusive and equitable education system under his SHINE Agenda.
Speaking on the issue of Edo-STAR teachers, the Head of Service disclosed that recommendations have been made for the absorption of those who meet the required criteria.
Earlier, the NASET Chairman, Comrade Isaac Jude Azuka, described the visit as a show of respect and an avenue to deepen collaboration with the Government. He outlined pressing challenges facing the Association to include shortage of teachers, lack of hostel accommodation for pupils, absence of school buses, inadequate allowances and the need for more special schools across the State.
According to Comrade Azuka, “I have great respect for the important work that your office does in ensuring the effective functioning of the Civil Service. Special education teachers are specially trained to care for and educate children with disabilities. We appeal for your intervention in addressing these challenges so that our members can work with renewed hope, strength, and dignity.”
Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi
Public Relations Officer
Office of the Head of Service
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
4th Right: the Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa; 3rd Right: the Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers, Comrade Isaac Jude Azuka, amongst other members of the Association, during an engagement with the HOS at the Government House in Benin City.
