By Joshua Weng Chuwang
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD), Hon. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, has commended the efforts of the Federal University, Lafia, for its dedication to ensuring that students with disabilities receive inclusive education and have access to facilities in the institution.
Hon. Gufwan acknowledged the policies of the university management that ensure PWDs are not sidelined in various affairs within the university. He noted that these efforts will significantly boost the students with disabilities, enabling them to pursue their academic goals.
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lafia, introduced a 75 percent subsidy on tuition and other charges, easing the financial pressure of accessing education for these students with disabilities.
The institution also reserves two percent of its admission slots for candidates with special needs, a move that speaks volumes about the management’s commitment to promoting equality, fairness, and representation.
Since establishing the Centre for Disability Studies and allocating hostel spaces for students with disabilities, the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) has commended the Vice Chancellor and recommends that other tertiary institutions follow in this direction. This development aligns with the Revised National Policy on Inclusive Education (2024), which provides for social inclusion and poverty alleviation. The initiative seems to be a win for PWDs advocacy, but it leaves a gap to be filled by other institutions and bodies. The implementation of these policies is also an important factor to watch out for.
