A lecturer at the University of Ilorin has advocated for the mandatory inclusion of special education in teacher training programs across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Professor Bolanle Olawuyi, speaking at the 255th inaugural lecture of the University of Ilorin, emphasized the importance of integrating special education into general studies at tertiary institutions.
Olawuyi urged education sector administrators to lobby governments for the compulsory inclusion of special education in teacher training programs, aiming to raise awareness and appreciation for people with disabilities and the underlying causes.
She stressed that removing societal stigmas and barriers would enable individuals with disabilities to make significant contributions to national development.
Professor Olawuyi also called for a revamp of sign language curriculum to accommodate diverse language dimensions, empowering those with hearing impairments to function effectively.
Furthermore, she advocated for the employment of more professionals to support inclusive education for people with disabilities and emphasized the need for greater accommodation and accessibility in society.
