The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has urged authorities to channel more resources into the education sector, particularly programmes designed to support learners with disabilities.
The monarch made the appeal on Thursday during a meeting with the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, led by its Chairperson, Ambassador Nihinlola Akanbi, at his Boroboro residence.
In a statement released on Friday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described education as a right that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive challenges.
He stressed that adequate funding was necessary to close gaps in access to education and create a more inclusive society.
According to the monarch, special education plays a significant role in equipping people with disabilities with practical and professional skills that can enable them to live independently and contribute to the economy.
Alaafin said, “It prepares students with disabilities for vocational and career success, transitioning them into self-reliant workforce members who pay taxes and reduce dependency, and fosters an inclusive society that values human rights, reduces poverty, and honours the dignity of all citizens.
“Special education drives national development by transforming every citizen regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive ability into a valuable human resource who can actively contribute to the economy and society.
“Education is an important social service meant for everybody in the community, whether the person is able-bodied or suffers some disabilities, adding that it is a right for everybody, both young and old, to be educated because the purpose is for all to gain access to knowledge, skills and information that will prepare them to contribute to the development of their communities.”
Owoade also encouraged the college’s governing council and management to sustain efforts aimed at improving the institution.
He pledged his support for initiatives that would advance the college, while observing that it already possessed key facilities and human resources needed for university status.
“The only thing I will charge you for is performance. The College has all that is required of a university status, such as structures and human resources. What is now needed is the political backing and royal support,” he said.
Akanbi had earlier praised the monarch for his support and cooperation with the institution, while the Provost, Dr Ademola Salami, also acknowledged his contribution to the college’s development.
Established in 1977, the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, is focused on preparing teachers and professionals to provide education for students with special needs.