Edo Pledges Support for Special Needs Schools, Commends Teachers’ Service
The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening special needs education, commending teachers in the sector for what it described as unwavering dedication and sacrifice.
Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving members of the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET), Edo State chapter, during a courtesy visit in Benin City.
Idahosa, who praised the association for its service to pupils with special needs, said the state government deeply values the role of special education teachers in advancing inclusive learning.
“The Edo State Government commends your association for its selfless service to pupils with special needs,” he said. “We look forward to building a strong relationship between the government and your organisation. This visit is timely and will help strengthen collaboration between the government and NASET.”
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, the deputy governor assured the teachers that the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration would continue to support and collaborate with the association to improve special education delivery across the state.
He added that the government would examine the needs presented by the association, particularly those aimed at enhancing teachers’ job efficiency and improving learning outcomes for pupils.
Earlier, NASET, led by its state chairman, Mr. Isaac Azuka, appealed for greater inclusion of pupils with special needs in the state’s broader educational programmes. The association also acknowledged the impact of the governor’s SHINE Agenda on the education sector, describing it as commendable.
Azuka, however, outlined key challenges facing special education in the state. He called for the recruitment of caregivers and qualified special needs teachers, and appealed for a 45 per cent increase in allowances for members.
He disclosed that Edo State currently has seven schools dedicated primarily to the education of pupils with special needs, five at the primary level and two at the secondary level, underscoring the need for expanded government support.
In a related development, the deputy governor also received the leadership of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), led by Wisdom Isaac.
Idahosa pledged government collaboration in the group’s forthcoming sensitisation project in Edo State, aimed at combating drug abuse and discouraging youth involvement in cultism.
The visit, according to him, aligns with the administration’s broader commitment to youth development and social reform across the state.