The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Chris Maiyaki, has committed the Commission to introducing courses and programs that will enhance national capacity and provide equal opportunities for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs).
Maiyaki stated that this commitment aligns with the Commission’s dedication to continuously updating and developing globally accepted minimum academic standards in delivering university education in Nigeria.
He made this pledge during the inaugural National Conference on Equal Opportunity of Access to Higher Education, organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Maiyaki highlighted that the conference is in line with the UNESCO Convention Against Discrimination in Education (CADE 1960).
The conference, themed ‘Towards Increasing Equal Opportunity of Access to Higher Education in Nigeria’, aims to improve the enrollment opportunities for persons with disabilities in the Nigerian tertiary education system.
Addressing the audience, Maiyaki emphasized the need for higher education providers to pay special attention to the difficulties faced by disabled students on their respective campuses. He stressed the importance of providing adequate and accessible infrastructure, such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, hostels, washrooms, dining halls, and sports/recreational facilities. He also called for access to financial support to ensure their overall well-being.
According to available statistics, there are over 27 million Nigerians living with various disabilities, including visual, hearing, physical, intellectual, and communication impairments.
Maiyaki reiterated that the National Policy on Education includes provisions for inclusive education for all Nigerians.
“The policy clearly stipulates that persons with disabilities should be educated in regular schools alongside their non-disabled peers,” he added.
Praising the Registrar and management of JAMB for their innovation, Maiyaki expressed his hope that this initiative will be sustained to achieve its objectives.
