Creating More Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities 🤝🏽

Creating More Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities 🤝🏽

For some young people, getting into university is a big achievement. But staying in school can become difficult when they cannot afford their tuition fees.

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This was one of the concerns discussed when Ema4kids Legacy Foundation recently visited the Plateau State Disability Rights Commission to explore how both organisations can work together to support persons with disabilities who need help with their education. 🎓

The Ema4kids team was welcomed by the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Longnen Jurang Jiruka, who was joined by Comr. Christiana Bature, Staff Officer, and Mr. Joseph Goladi, Program Engagement Officer.

During the meeting, Ema4kids shared about its work and its commitment to supporting vulnerable young people, particularly those who face financial challenges in accessing education and other opportunities.

The Commission also shared some of the challenges faced by students with disabilities. We learned that two persons with disabilities at the University of Jos were unable to register because they could not afford their tuition fees. We also learned that, in the previous year, two students with disabilities were unable to graduate because they could not pay their tuition fees.

Hearing this brought home the reality that financial challenges can prevent students from completing the education they have worked so hard to pursue.

Working Together to Make a Difference 🤝🏽

The Chairman welcomed Ema4kids' interest in supporting persons with disabilities and acknowledged that government cannot address every challenge alone. He highlighted the role NGOs and other organisations can play in supporting government efforts.

The Commission expressed its willingness to work with Ema4kids to identify persons who may need educational support. The Commission will review its records and provide guidance on potential beneficiaries.

For Ema4kids, this is an important opportunity to build a relationship with the Commission and learn more about the needs of persons with disabilities in Plateau State.

We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to pursue their education and work towards a better future. Sometimes, the support needed may simply be someone willing to listen, identify the need, and help create an opportunity. 💚

The Commission will hold an internal discussion on the proposed collaboration and communicate with Ema4kids on the next steps.

We are grateful to the Plateau State Disability Rights Commission for welcoming us and for being open to working together.

We look forward to building on this relationship and exploring ways to support more young people with disabilities in achieving their educational goals. 🌱