The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inclusive education policies and programmes across Lagos State following a courtesy visit by officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MBSE).
Eko Hot News reports that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, led a delegation to the LASODA office for discussions aimed at expanding access to quality education for persons with disabilities.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between both institutions to improve educational opportunities and support systems for learners with disabilities in Lagos.
Speaking during the engagement, the General Manager of LASODA, Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, described the visit as a positive step toward deepening partnerships that promote inclusive learning.
She noted that LASODA remains committed to ensuring that students with disabilities are fully integrated into mainstream education through improved policies and stronger institutional collaboration.
Oyetunde-Lawal explained that inclusive education is essential to providing equal learning opportunities for all students regardless of their physical or learning challenges.
She highlighted several issues affecting inclusive education, including the limited number of inclusive schools across the state.
According to her, there is also a need for specialised learning materials designed to support students with disabilities.
She further noted the shortage of trained special education teachers and sign language interpreters in public schools.
The LASODA General Manager explained that the agency continues to advocate for improved support systems that will strengthen learning outcomes for students with disabilities.
She revealed that LASODA has partnered with the Lagos State Scholarship Board to facilitate scholarship opportunities for students living with disabilities.
According to her, the initiative helps support the academic development of students who require additional educational assistance.
Oyetunde-Lawal also advocated for the establishment of more inclusive secondary schools across the state to accommodate the growing number of learners with special needs.
She further proposed the creation of a dedicated board that will oversee inclusive education policies and programmes in Lagos.
The General Manager also highlighted the importance of student welfare and hygiene within inclusive learning environments.
She disclosed that LASODA plans to organise a menstrual hygiene outreach programme in one of the state’s inclusive schools.
The initiative is aimed at promoting proper hygiene awareness among students and supporting their health and well-being.
Oyetunde-Lawal also reiterated the agency’s advocacy for the inclusion of sign language in school curricula.
She explained that incorporating sign language into learning programmes would improve communication and enhance classroom participation for students with hearing impairments.
In her response, the Permanent Secretary of MBSE, Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, commended LASODA for its continuous advocacy and programmes supporting persons with disabilities.
She acknowledged the importance of the issues raised and emphasised the need for sustained collaboration between both institutions.
Dokunmu-Adegbite recommended the establishment of a joint working committee between the Ministry and LASODA.
According to her, the committee would address key challenges affecting inclusive education and explore practical solutions.
She also highlighted the need to engage qualified teachers with National Certificate of Education (NCE) in special education.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening inclusive education across the state.
She explained that the government plans to recruit more special education teachers and sign language interpreters in public schools.
She also noted that continuous professional training for teachers will remain a priority.
Dokunmu-Adegbite emphasised the importance of accurate data collection in improving educational planning for learners with disabilities.
She encouraged LASODA to provide regular reports on its activities to enhance coordination between both institutions.
Education stakeholders present at the meeting agreed that inclusive education plays a critical role in ensuring equal access to learning opportunities.
They noted that collaborative efforts between government agencies will help create a more supportive learning environment for students with disabilities across Lagos.
