By DAYO ADESULU
…FG Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive, Accessible Education
ABUJA — The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has announced plans to institutionalize the teaching of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive education.
UBEC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Aisha Garba, disclosed this during the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child celebration held in Abuja on Thursday, themed “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”
Garba said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes access to education and empowerment for every Nigerian child, regardless of ability.
“Imagine a country where hospitals, banks, supermarkets, and schools have sign language interpreters — a system without communication barriers for hearing-impaired children. That is the vision we are working towards, one school at a time,” she stated.
She added that UBEC’s new school policy mandates the inclusion of ramps, accessible structures, and trained teachers in all public schools, ensuring children with disabilities can learn in dignity.
The Commission, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), is also investing in teacher training and digital learning tools designed to meet the needs of children with special needs.
Garba reaffirmed UBEC’s zero-tolerance stance on bullying and abuse, noting that child protection mechanisms were being reinforced across basic education institutions.
“No girl should suffer in silence or face abuse — especially one with reduced ability to cry out,” she emphasized.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, urged stakeholders to ensure that all girls, including those with disabilities, have equal access to quality education.
“Sign language is a bridge, not a barrier. It connects minds, shapes friendships, and unlocks futures,” she said.
Ahmad also called for policy alignment, coordinated funding, and stronger partnerships to enable girls to transition from basic education to higher learning and vocational opportunities.
Despite progress, the minister acknowledged that poverty, stigma, and safety concerns still hinder many girls from fulfilling their potential, urging “collective action to dismantle these barriers.”
🧩 Infographic Concepts (Visual Storytelling)
🖼️ Infographic 1: “Inclusive Education Drive — UBEC’s 2025 Vision”
Sections:
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Headline: “One School, One Change — Building an Inclusive Nigeria”
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Visual Icons:
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👩🏫 Teacher using sign language
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🏫 School with ramp & accessible classroom
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👧 Girl with hearing aid raising her hand
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Key Data Points:
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📚 New policy: Sign language to be taught in all basic schools
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🧑🏫 Federal training program for inclusive teachers (2025–2026 rollout)
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🏗️ Accessibility: All new schools must include ramps & disability-friendly facilities
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🤝 UBEC + NPHCDA partnership on inclusive digital learning tools
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Quote Section:
“Sign language is a bridge, not a barrier.” — Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad
🖼️ Infographic 2: “Building Safe and Empowered Classrooms for Girls”
Visual Layout:
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Split panel: Left (Challenges) ➜ Right (Solutions)
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Challenges:
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🚫 Bullying & abuse
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💸 Poverty & stigma
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🧏 Communication barriers
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UBEC Solutions:
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✅ Mandatory sign language teaching
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✅ Child protection protocols
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✅ Teacher training & awareness campaigns
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