BENIN CITY: The Edo State Government on Tuesday lauded the Nigeria Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) for what it described as unwavering and selfless service to pupils with special needs, pledging stronger collaboration to advance inclusive education in the state.
State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa gave the commendation while receiving the Edo State chapter of NASET, led by Mr Isaac Jude Azuka, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin City on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Idahosa said that the visit was timely and would help deepen collaboration between the state government and the organisation.
The deputy governor assured the educators of government’s readiness to address areas of need raised by the association, noting that such support would enhance efficiency and improve service delivery in special schools across the state.
Speaking earlier, Azuka commended Governor Okpebholo for initiating the SHINE Agenda, describing it as a forward-looking blueprint for development.
He, however, appealed for stronger educational inclusion of pupils with special needs within the state’s broader education framework.
Highlighting challenges facing the sector, he called for the recruitment of caregivers and qualified special needs teachers, as well as a 45 percent increment in allowances for members.
He disclosed that Edo currently has seven schools dedicated primarily to pupils with special needs – five primary and two secondary institutions, stressing the need for expanded support.
In a related development, Idahosa received the leadership of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), led by Mr Wisdom Osaro Isaac.
Idahosa assured the leadership of government collaboration in their forthcoming sensitization campaign aimed at combating drug abuse and discouraging cultism among youths in Edo State.
