The Friends of the Deaf International Foundation (FDF), in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, has successfully hosted the 4th edition of their Inclusive Spelling Bee, held at the Daniel Akintonde Model School for Children with Special Needs in Adigbe, Abeokuta.
This impactful event, held as part of the global observance of Learning Disability Week (June 16), brought together children with and without disabilities to compete side by side in a celebration of knowledge, courage, diversity and inclusivity.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Funmi Ogunro, Executive Director of FDF, emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of inclusion and acceptance in education and the society at lage:
“Children with disabilities should not be stigmatized. We need to recognise them and give them all the support they need to thrive.
“The Inclusive Spelling Bee was created to encourage that very mindset of advancing educational rights of children with disabilities.”
This marks the first edition of the initiative held in Ogun State, following successful collaborations with the Lagos State Ministry of Education and the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) for the previous three editions.
Mrs. Ogunro noted that the expansion to Ogun was inspired by the need to promote inclusivity in the state to encourage more government-owned and private special and inclusive schools. She believes that way, children with disabilities can gain access to schools near home.
The spelling bee showcased the impressive talents of children with various disabilities, reinforcing the belief that “all children can learn” when given the right support.
Mrs. Deborah Ogundimu, Director of Special Education, praised the initiative, commending Mrs. Ogunro’s dedication and vision.
Other dignitaries, including Chief J.B. Shodiya and Mrs Maureen Ola-Williams of Lyceum College, lauded the event and urged greater government support for children with special needs.
Also in attendance was Dr. Rotimi Akinlesi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who highlighted the broader significance of the event.
Citing Davido’s appointment of visually impaired musician Cobhams Asuquo as an example of the inclusive society we want.
“This shows that society is learning to embrace and celebrate unique abilities. Inclusion is not charity—it is justice,” Dr. Akinlesi noted.
The event concluded with award presentations. All contestants received gold medals, educational support materials, and gift hampers to support them in the classrooms.
The celebration ended on a high note with cake cutting and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Solomon Praise, a student with a disability from St. Peters college Olomore
The Inclusive Spelling Bee continues to champion the cause of inclusive education in Nigeria, empowering children with special needs to believe in their potential and take pride in their abilities.
