Association of Parents/Guardians of Children with Disabilities Kicks Off in Osun
By Abisola Ariwodola,
In order to navigate over neglect and hopelessness on the part of the Parents of Children with Disabilities, parents and guardians of children with disabilities came together in Osun state to form an association.
The Association of Parents/Guardian of Children with Disabilities APCWD had their unveiling in Osogbo on Thursday at NUJ Secretariat Conference Hall.
The launching of the Association of Parents/Guardian of Children with Disabilities marks the culmination of advocacy for Children with Disabilities of all forms in Osun State.
In his remarks, the state Coordinator, Rev. Dele Olaniru showed concern at what the parents of children with disabilities goes through, adding that data shows millions of children in Nigeria lives with disabilities and still faces challenges such as inaccessible infrastructure, stigma, and a lack of funding which significantly hinders their access to essential services including education.
Stating that it is hard for an individual to let go of dreams and aspirations because of nursing a child with disability, he encouraged all to continue supporting their children with disabilities, and urged the parents never to neglect them.
Rev Olaniru also added that the creation of the Association is to transform the lives of the Children with Disabilities and attempt to give hope to their Parents, with the vision and objectives of the Parents of Children Living with Disabilities association.
Speaking on the concept of the APCWD, the state Coordinator applauded Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its support of disability community, adding that the program by the security outfit birthed the idea of having a parent association with the objective of advocate the right of children with disabilities, identify and overcome problems and barriers, and change public attitudes, and serve as a primary resource to organisations, non-government, private and to public entities.
While calling on the government to provide comprehensive legal framework, financial and educational support systems that enable full inclusion, independence and a high quality of life for children and families,, he added that law enforcement agencies and parents also has roles to play.
In her goodwill message, Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) Rita Olaniru, while representing the Osun state Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Igbalawole Sotiyo, stated that persons with disabilities are part of the society and their rights like education should never be denied them, maintaining that doing this is a crime.
She urged the parents to use the network to support each other, adding that seeking medical attention for the disability children should not be taken for granted.
Highlight of the programme was the experience shared by the parents of children with disabilities, to form a bond, and encourage each other. They also called on the public to stop stigmatising disabled children and their family.
The government, and other stakeholders were also urged to provide accessibility infrastructure and support for children living with disabilities.
The programme was graced by dignitaries from clusters which include: Christian Association of Nigeria, Muslim Community, Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities, Non governmental organisations, health practitioners, bureau of persons with disabilities among others.