Education Minister decries discrimination against children with disabilities in schools

The Minister of State for Education, Yusuf Sununu, has called for the stoppage of discrimination against children with disabilities in public schools across the country.

Sununu made the request at an event marking the 2023 International Day for Persons With Disability held in Abuja.

The minister, who was represented by Dr Clarence Ujam of the Ministry of Education, said findings revealed that children with disabilities are being rejected in public schools due to a lack of facilities and caregivers, a development he wants all stakeholders to join hands and stop.

“Findings revealed that children with disabilities are rejected from public schools because of a lack of facilities and caregivers. This discrimination must stop by the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders,” he said.

He said it is also disheartening that children with disabilities, apart from education, are often denied many of their rights, including associated negative perceptions.

He, therefore, called for implementation of the Sustainable Development Goal number 4, which demands for inclusivity and promotion of opportunities for people living with disabilities.