By Lilian Danjuma
Niger State Government has set aside one billion naira for the construction of Schools of Children with Special needs across the Twenty Five Local Government Areas of the State.
Governor Mohammed Bago made this known at the Official flag off of the Rise project, a foundation for children with the special needs in Minna.
The project will cover four pilot schools for the affected children.
He equally approved the formation of a Board under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education for immediate take off on issues affecting the children with special needs.
Governor Bago expressed optimism that with schools, children with special needs in every LGA, from long distance and non access to education would be checked.
The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Hadiza Asabe Mohammed advocated a comprehensive approach to issues affecting children, especially those with special needs.
Dr Mohammed opined that modification of curriculum and integration of the education of persons with special needs are necessary in giving them a sense of belonging.
The convener and Chief Executive Officer of the NGO, Farida center, Hajiya Amina Jummai Gimba said the Foundation was aimed at including the educational requirements of Children with Special needs into learning environment.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya and the State Chairman of Universal Education Board Mallam Mohammed Ibrahim Baba stressed the need for suitable policies for children with disabilities.
