The Maikaya Development Foundation has distributed thousands of exercise books to indigent students of Nasarawa State in its renewed advocacy for inclusive education for students with disabilities in the state.
The distribution ceremony, held at the Faculty of Education, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, brought together student union leaders, academic representatives, and other stakeholders from the education sector.
Speaking at the event on Saturday, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Dr. Muhammed Maikaya, represented by the Operations Manager, Shuaibu Sani, said the gesture was aimed at easing the financial burden on students and encouraging them to remain focused on their academic goals.
“This distribution is not just about writing materials; it is a reaffirmation of our belief that every student, regardless of status, deserves the tools and support needed to succeed. We are committed to ensuring that no student is left behind,” he said.
Student leaders who spoke during the event expressed deep appreciation to the foundation for its consistent support and investment in the academic well-being of students.
President of the Nasarawa State Students Association, Ovey Abimiku, said the foundation had continued to show what it means to be a true partner in education, saying that, “this is a welcome intervention that would help many students who can’t afford basic learning materials.”
Also speaking, State Coordinator of the Association of Nigerian Female Students, Tabitha Jatau, praised the foundation’s longstanding dedication to youth empowerment.
“MDF has not only provided these writing materials but has also supported students with scholarships and tuition funds for many years. We are grateful for this rare consistency,” she noted.
It would be recalled that weeks earlier, the foundation had supported over 500 students across the state with Education Support Funds to assist with the payment of tuition fees and levies, an annual intervention that has benefitted thousands over the past decade.
In addition to its material support, the foundation has continued to advocate for inclusive education policies in the state.
During a recent stakeholders’ engagement themed “Breaking Barriers and Promoting People with Special Needs’ Inclusion in Higher Institutions”, the CEO, Maikaya, had called on the government and educational institutions to prioritise the rights and needs of students living with disabilities.
“The truth is, barriers both seen and unseen still prevent many of our brothers and sisters with special needs from accessing quality education. These are not just inconveniences. They are injustices. And they must be corrected,” Maikaya said.
He recommended several critical steps to advance inclusive education, including accessible infrastructure, adapted learning materials, disability awareness training for academic staff, and policy implementation at all levels.
“Inclusive education is not optional; it is essential for real development. We have seen the power of what can happen when potential meets opportunity. Now we must ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to those opportunities,” the Foundation’s CEO added.
He, therefore, urged stakeholders, government agencies, private sector actors, NGOs, and civil society groups to collaborate in making inclusive education a reality in Nasarawa State and beyond.
Our correspondent reports that as both the distribution of learning materials and the advocacy for inclusive education gains momentum, the Maikaya Development Foundation continues to position itself as a leading force for educational reformation and youth empowerment in Nasarawa State.
With its mantra, “Leaving No One Behind,” the foundation remains resolute in bridging the gap between potential and opportunity for all students.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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