The Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration’s unwavering commitment to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), in Ekiti State on Thursday officially welcomed its first inclusive school, following the handover of retrofitted adaptive learning facilities at the Irepodun Community Pilot School in Ikole-Ekiti.
The project, a visionary initiative donated by the immediate former Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode, was formally presented to the state government, marking a historic stride in the government’s broader agenda to improve the standards of living and learning for all citizens, especially those with special needs.
Governor Oyebanji, represented by the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, commended Hon. Oyebode for the compassionate and impactful intervention, noting that the gesture perfectly aligns with the state’s multi-faceted initiatives for PWDs. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to creating an enabling environment where every citizen, regardless of ability, can thrive and access quality education and social inclusion.
The event, witnessed by top government officials, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders, highlighted the government’s significant strides in this sector.
These include the establishment of the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, headed by Princess Adetoun Agboola, to mainstream inclusive education and ensure PWDs are integrated into all aspects of public life. Furthermore, the administration has developed actionable work plans in response to the Federal Ministry of Education’s directive on inclusive education, launched support programs for parents of children with disabilities—including financial tokens for school uniforms to encourage enrollment—and is actively fostering partnerships with private donors and community leaders to expand infrastructure and support systems for PWDs across the state.
Immediate past commissioner for finance Hon. Oyebode, addressing the gathering, stated that his drive was rooted in reducing the struggles faced by children with disabilities, noting that the facility would eliminate the need for long commutes and provide a supportive, high-quality learning environment locally.
Special Adviser Special Education and Social Inclusion Princess Adetoun Agboola described the project as a major milestone, emphasizing that inclusive education fosters empathy, equity, and opportunity while reflecting the government’s proactive approach to social inclusion.
Special Adviser on Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, echoed the government’s appreciation for private contributions, stressing that such partnerships are vital for holistic development. The Elekole of Ikole-Ekiti, represented by High Chief Shayo Okunola, also praised Hon. Oyebode as a worthy ambassador and reaffirmed the community’s support.
This development is a testament to Governor Oyebanji’s people-centred governance, which continues to champion initiatives that leave no one behind.
Recall that the state government through the office of social inclusion had organized a three day seminar for Principals,Head Teachers and Tutor-Generals across the 16 Local Government Areas on how to accommodate them in public schools.
