The Zamfara State Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE Project) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening disability inclusion within its programs.
According to the commutations officer, Zamfara AGILE project, Bashir Kabiru Ahmad in a statement he signed and made available to SMARTS NEWS the declaration was made during a meeting held on Monday between the AGILE Project and the leadership of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Gusau.
Speaking on behalf of the State Project Coordinator, Hajiya Sa’adatu Abdu Gusau, the Deputy Project Coordinator, Dr. Salisu Dalhatu, emphasized the project’s dedication to ensuring that the needs of people with disabilities are adequately addressed in the implementation of the AGILE Project.
“We are committed to improving disability inclusion in our project,” said Saadatu Abdu Gusau. She noted that the project will collaborate with disability-focused NGOs, civil society organizations, development partners, and relevant government agencies to develop effective strategies for achieving inclusive and equitable project outcomes.
The AGILE Project also plans to rehabilitate schools for special education in Zamfara as part of its efforts to ensure a brighter future for girls with disabilities. “We aim to identify and address barriers to access for persons with special needs and work with organizations that can help bridge these gaps,” the coordinator added.
She called on stakeholders, particularly the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, to offer their support and prayers for the success of Governor Dauda Lawal’s mission of declaring a state of emergency on education in the state.
In his remarks, Dr. Bilyaminu Umar, the State Chairman of JONAPWD, lamented the continued neglect and partiality experienced by people with disabilities. He expressed optimism that the AGILE Project’s focus on inclusion will mark a positive change, vowing to support the initiative through the active participation of JONAPWD members in areas such as school enrollment, retention, and completion for adolescents with disabilities.
The Zamfara AGILE Project continues to strive for inclusive, equitable education, ensuring that no child is left behind, regardless of their disability status.
