From Our Correspondent
Abeokuta, June 17, ’25 (TNZ) The Friends of the Deaf International Foundation (FDF), in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, has successfully hosted the 4th Inclusive Spelling Bee competition.
TheNewsZenith reports that the competition took place at the Daniel Akintonde Model School for Children with Special Needs in Adigbe, Abeokuta.
This event, held as part of the global observance of Learning Disability Week on Monday. It brought together children with and without disabilities to compete.
They competed side by side in a celebration of knowledge, courage, diversity and inclusivity.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Funmi Ogunro, Executive Director of FDF, emphasised the importance of fostering a culture of inclusion and acceptance in education.
“People should not stigmatise children with disabilities. We need to recognise and give them all the support they need to thrive.
“The Inclusive Spelling Bee competition is to encourage that very mindset of advancing educational rights of children with disabilities,” TheNewsZenith quotes Ogunro as saying.
This marks the first edition of the initiative held in Ogun State. It follows the successful collaborations with the Lagos State Ministry of Education and the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA).
Ogunro noted that the expansion to Ogun is to promote inclusivity and encourage more government-owned and private special and inclusive schools.
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She believes that children with disabilities can gain access to schools near their homes.
The spelling bee showcased the impressive talents of children with various disabilities.
It also reinforces the belief that “all children can learn” when given the right support.
Mrs Deborah Ogundimu, the Director of Special Education, commended the initiative and Ogunro’s dedication.
TheNewsZenith reports that the event was rounded off with award presentations.
All contestants received gold medals, educational support materials, and gift hampers to support them in the classroom.
The Inclusive Spelling Bee continues to champion the cause of inclusive education in Nigeria.
It is empowering children with special needs to believe in their potential and take pride in their abilities. (TNZ)
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