Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State governor, has underscored the importance of integrating local content into the school curriculum for children with autism.
Speaking at the Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc Autism Conference held in Lagos, she emphasized the necessity of engaging autistic individuals with educational materials that resonate with their cultural and environmental contexts.
Addressing an audience that included behavioural analysts, speech pathologists, childhood education experts, clinical psychologists, and parents,
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the unique challenges faced by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
She passionately advocated for a curriculum that not only educates but also enriches the lives of these children, enabling them to lead normal and fulfilling lives like their peers.
“Children with autism, just like every other child, deserve a chance to thrive in an environment that understands and caters to their needs,” she remarked, urging the Nigerian community to show love and support.
Sanwo-Olu’s remarks were a clarion call for the adoption of local content in autism education, a move she believes will enhance understanding and comfort for autistic children.
The two-day conference, themed “A Spectrum of Possibilities,” was a melting pot of ideas and strategies aimed at improving the lives of autistic individuals. Experts shared insights on effective communication strategies, emphasizing the “keep it simple and short” approach.
Sanwo-Olu also commended GTCO Plc for their unwavering support over the past 14 years, acknowledging their role in championing the cause of autism in Nigeria.
In her speech, she stressed the need for educational materials that include pictorial and non-verbal communication aids, tailored to reflect familiar objects and experiences across Nigeria’s diverse geopolitical zones. This, she argued, would make learning more relatable and effective, fostering a more inclusive environment for autistic children.
GTCO Plc CEO, Segun Agbaje, reiterated commitment to supporting the autism community.
He highlighted the positive impact of the knowledge and support garnered through past conferences, which have significantly improved the quality of life for many on the autism spectrum in Africa.
