THE Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development (IICSD) has condemned the continued closure of schools for children with special needs in Osun State, describing it as an unacceptable disruption of their right to education.
In a press statement signed by its Programmes Manager, Engr. Kolade Onaolapo, the group urged the Osun State Government to reopen the schools immediately and prioritise the welfare of the vulnerable children.
IICSD said while it welcomes interventions by stakeholders which have compelled the government to explore alternative funding sources, the development should lead to urgent action and not further delays.
The group faulted the earlier explanation that the schools could not resume due to non-availability of local government allocations, saying it raises concerns about the government’s commitment to protecting the interests of the students.
“Children with special needs should not be made to suffer the consequences of funding challenges or administrative shortcomings. The students are already demoralised by the prolonged closure,” the statement read.
The organisation also called for an urgent review of the reported N180 daily meal budget per student, noting that given prevailing food prices and the nutritional needs of the students, the amount is inadequate.
It urged the government to ensure that students, particularly those in residential facilities, receive three balanced meals daily, and to address infrastructure deficiencies in the schools, including accessible classrooms, sanitation facilities, and assistive learning materials.
According to IICSD, inclusive education requires adequate funding, trained personnel, and a dignified learning environment, and called on relevant ministries, local government authorities, and disability advocates to work together for a lasting solution.
The group reiterated its demand for the immediate reopening of all affected special needs schools in the state alongside improved feeding and sustainable funding.