Winners emerge in Lagos special schools’ quiz competition

As part of efforts to develop the minds of children with special needs and create a healthy rivalry among them, the Lagos State government recently held a quiz competition for pupils with disabilities.

The duo of Augustine Jude and Ogunlade Iyanu of Ipakodo Senior Grammar School clinched the star prize in the senior secondary school category.

In the junior category, Salawudeen Hamed and Adekoya Mistura of Agbowa Junior, Agbowa-Ikosi emerged winner to defeat Oyekinle Mary and Adewale Oyindamola of Ikeja Junior School, GRA, as well as Prosper Praise Eze and NNaka Chidera of State Junior School, Surulere who clinched the second and third positions respectively.

In the primary schools’ category, Tobiloba Bangbelu and Salami Ibrahim of Pacelli School for the blind, Surulere, came first while John Favour and Iwuji Nelson of Community Primary School inclusive, Ajangbadi, and Adewale Segun and Afez Saka of National Orthopaedic Special School Igbobi, emerged first and second runners up.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs Adebunmi Adekanye explained that the competition was introduced to give the physically challenged children in the state special schools and inclusive units a sense of belonging.

She implored all parents who have children living with disabilities to register them in special schools so that government can help them realise their full potentials.

Adekanye reaffirmed the resolve of the Lagos State government to integrate students living with disabilities into the society; to empower them with skills that could instill confidence in them, such that they can contribute their quota to national growth.

While commending participants for their efforts, Adekanye enjoined them never to feel rejected assuring that government is committed to assist them in actualising their full potentials.

She also lauded their teachers for selflessly taking care of the children and urged them not to relent but be more committed, innovative and proactive in contributing their quota to national development.

Director, Child Guidance, School Counseling and Special Education, Mrs Ketimu Musa commended the participating schools for the boldness, self confidence and self esteem exhibited during the preliminaries to the final stage.