A Nigerian-founded nongovernmental organisation, BLOOM Wellbeing Initiative, has joined forces with PhD scholars specializing in Guidance & Counseling from the Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin to host a Career Day tailored for students with special needs.
The event, held on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, targeted students of Kwara State School of Special Needs, and saw the participation of the Hon. Commissioner for Education, Sa’adatu Modibbo Karu, as the distinguished guest of honor and keynote speaker.
Speaking at the event, the convener and founder of BLOOM, Islamiyya Olajire Ibraheem, appreciated the partnership extended by researchers and scholars of the Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin.
“Experts have defined special needs child as one that requires extensive medical, educational, or emotional support. In a way, we are all in need of support from other people. Hence, we must come together to make the world a better place through leveraging our expertise and the opportunities that comes with a digital age,” she said.
“There is a lot we can achieve together through partnerships. Our partnership with these scholars gives me hope that there are concerned and patriotic people in the country. Our ambition is to touch lives, and I do hope that we continue to expand our coast to reach more deserving people.”
On the role of government in enhancing education, especially in areas of interests to students with special needs, Commissioner Sa’adatu Modibbo Karu highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the current administration to foster inclusion in Kwara State, a North Central state in Nigeria.
The commissioner commended the organizers for bringing what she described as an “impactful initiative” to special children within the state.
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Speaking on the theme: “Overcoming Adversity,” Mr. Hakeem Lawal, a visually impaired IT professional from the State Library, shared his personal journey to blindness.
While acknowledging his challenges in the face of reality, Hakeem, who has been blind for 18 years, inspired participating students not to be grounded by their limitations.
The special needs event also saw the participation of speakers including Dr. Ogbungbade, a renowned counselor from the University of Ilorin; Dr. Mrs J. Yusuf, a lecturer from Al-Hikmah University; Barrister Abdulrazaak Olufemi ZAKARIYA; and school principal, Engr. Olododo.
During the presentation, Mr. Akorede and Mrs. Amusat assisted with interpretation of the presentations for the students through sign language.
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Discussing the project’s upcoming stage, Azeezat Ogunleti, founder of Youth Art Initiative and event coordinator for BLOOM, highlighted ongoing plans for vocational training aimed at equipping them with skills beyond academics.
“We believe every child is special and unique. At BLOOM, we want to show these children that they can equally have a beautiful life like their counterparts.
“We earnestly appeal for partnership and support from well meaning individuals and civil society organizations. With our vocational training, we can help these children acquire a life changing skills.”
