A Professor of speech languages, Julius Ademokoya, has urged education stakeholders in Nigeria to prioritise and enhance deaf education through professional teacher training.
As the Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of Ibadan, Ademokoya emphasised the necessity of increased budget allocations to the education sector, asserting that this step would bolster its progress and positively impact the country.
Addressing an international conference organised by Wesley University, Ondo, themed ‘Empowering deaf learners in inclusive education,’ Ademokoya highlighted that fostering deaf education not only facilitates effective learning but also facilitates inclusive education plans for deaf learners, thereby enhancing education development in Nigeria.
Recognising the significance of deaf individuals and People With Disabilities in society, the professor applauds the National Assembly for introducing sign language interpreters in both chambers. He underscores the imperative for all levels of government to prioritise deaf education advancement and ensure equitable inclusive education plans for deaf learners.
Addressing the conference theme, Ademokoya condemned the stigmatisation and neglect faced by deaf and PWDs, advocating for the eradication of cultural and language barriers hindering their meaningful inclusion into society.
He recommends the inclusion of deaf students in mainstream educational institutions across all government levels.
