Education
Inclusive Education Boost as Deaf-Tech, Federal University of Lafia Roll Out Master’s in Disability Studies
Joel Ajayi
In a major step toward advancing inclusive education in Nigeria, Deaf-in-Tech, an initiative of Data-Lead Africa, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal University of Lafia (FULAFIA) to establish a Professional Master’s Degree in Disability Studies.
The signing ceremony, held at Deaf-in-Tech’s headquarters in Abuja, featured a goodwill message from Prof. Adaka Terfa Ahon, Director of the Centre for Disability Studies, who represented FULAFIA’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shehu Abdul Rahman. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to championing disability and inclusion in its academic innovation and planning.
The new Master’s programme will adopt a hybrid learning model, with online classes complemented by in-person sessions at Deaf-in-Tech’s training facility in Abuja. It is designed to build expertise in disability-inclusive governance, education, and development across sectors.
Executive Director of Deaf-in-Tech and Co-Founder of Data-Lead Africa, Dr. Arowolo Ayoola, described the collaboration as a “structural shift” in how institutions and professionals engage with disability issues. “The inclusion journey must begin with knowledge, and we are proud to partner with a progressive university like FULAFIA,” he said.
Beyond the postgraduate programme, the partnership will also establish a Deaf-in-Tech Club on FULAFIA’s campus — the first of its kind — to empower Deaf students with technology skills, mentorship, and innovation opportunities. Additional initiatives include a ₦1 million academic excellence reward for any Deaf student who graduates with a First Class, as well as the development of a disability-accessible website and digital database for the Centre for Disability Studies, built to WCAG 2.1 global accessibility standards.
The alliance underscores both institutions’ commitment to building inclusive systems and celebrating excellence, while positioning Deaf-in-Tech as a catalyst for bridging the gap between disability and the digital economy.
Education
Onyechi Vows to Advance Educational Reforms as She Joins Nigerian Academy of Education
Cyril Ogar
Professor Kay Onyechi, a Professor of Guidance and Counseling at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has pledged to intensify efforts toward educational reform following her induction into the Nigerian Academy of Education (NAE).
Onyechi, a former Commissioner for Education in Anambra State, described the recognition as a motivation to deepen her contributions to national development through research, mentorship, and advocacy for inclusive learning.
“This honour inspires me to do more. I’m already considering setting up a foundation to support indigent students with school materials, accommodation, and access to quality education,” she said.
The renowned educationist, who served under the administration of former Governor Peter Obi, said her long-standing passion for education stems from its role in capacity building and social transformation. She noted that her years in academia and public service have strengthened her resolve to promote equitable learning opportunities for all Nigerian children.
According to her, the recognition by the NAE is not merely a personal milestone but a call to greater service in advancing educational reforms and mentoring the next generation of scholars.
Meanwhile, President of the Academy, Professor Kabiru Isyaku, used the occasion of the NAE’s 40th Anniversary celebration and induction of 38 new academics to call for the declaration of a state of emergency in the nation’s education sector.
Isyaku stressed the need for an urgent review of the National Policy on Education, last revised over a decade ago. He said the review should address critical issues such as the constitutional status of education, funding, curriculum relevance, evaluation, and certification.
He decried the high number of unqualified personnel teaching in schools while many trained teachers remain unemployed, adding that the situation undermines professionalism and weakens quality.
“It is discouraging to see schools filled with non-teachers while qualified educators are jobless. Quality assurance and supervisory agencies must enforce standards to ensure only qualified personnel are employed,” he said.
Isyaku also urged the Federal Government to constitute governing boards and councils for parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Education, noting that their absence hinders effective policy implementation and accountability.
The Nigerian Academy of Education, established four decades ago, is the apex professional body for distinguished educationists in the country. It comprises eminent scholars and administrators, including former ministers, vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, and directors of education.
The Academy’s mission is to advise on policies that enhance educational quality at all levels, conduct research on emerging issues, and promote excellence in teaching, learning, and administration.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News11 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
