A civil society organisation, the Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development (IICSD), has condemned the continued closure of schools for children with special needs in Osun State.
It described the shutdown as an “unacceptable disruption” of the children’s right to education, care and development, and urged the state government to reopen the schools immediately.
The group made the demand in a statement signed by its Programmes Manager, Engr. Kolade Onaolapo.
The organisation said it welcomed the interventions of stakeholders, whose advocacy it said had pushed the government to explore alternative funding sources. It argued, however, that this should lead to urgent action, “not further delays.”
IICSD also said an earlier explanation that the schools could not resume because local government allocations were unavailable “raises concerns about the government’s commitment to protecting the interests of these students.”
“Children with special needs should not be made to suffer the consequences of funding challenges or administrative shortcomings,” the statement said. It added that the students were “already demoralised” by the prolonged closure, which it said had disrupted their education, social interaction and access to specialised support, while piling pressure on parents and caregivers.
The group called for an urgent review of the reported ₦180 daily meal budget per student. It said the amount should be raised in view of prevailing food prices and the nutritional needs of the students.
It also urged the government to ensure that students, particularly those in residential facilities, receive three balanced meals daily.
IICSD said reported infrastructure deficiencies in the schools also needed urgent attention. It listed accessible classrooms, functional sanitation facilities, suitable accommodation where necessary and assistive learning materials among the essentials such institutions must have.
It asked the government to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the schools and to adopt a clear, time-bound plan to address the gaps.
“Inclusive education cannot be achieved by merely opening school gates,” the statement said. “It requires adequate funding, trained personnel, appropriate facilities, quality learning materials and an environment where every child can learn with dignity.”
The organisation urged the government to show “the political will” to resolve the crisis and to set up a sustainable funding arrangement that guarantees uninterrupted school operations.
It said funding difficulties should be handled through proper planning and intergovernmental collaboration, “rather than allowing vulnerable children to bear the burden of institutional failures.”
IICSD also called for transparent funding and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that money allocated to the schools is properly used and that similar disruptions do not recur. It urged ministries, local government authorities, school administrators, parents and disability advocates to work together towards a lasting solution.
The group commended the stakeholders who have continued to speak up for the students and encouraged them to sustain their advocacy until the schools reopen.
“These students deserve more than promises; they deserve immediate action and an education system that gives them a fair opportunity to thrive,” the statement said.
