By Adeboye Ado

Applause has trailed the establishment  four special schools in Ikare, Owo, Akure, and Okeigbo in Ondo State for persons with disabilities as the gesture  has been described as a blessing.

Ex-students of the institutions said the establishment had significantly reduced street begging and improved the living standards of persons with disabilities across the state.

Speaking at a community forum in Afin-Akoko, the two former pupils of the special schools shared their life-changing experiences with The Hope.

Mr. Dada Adefemi, now an executive officer with Akoko Northwest Local Government in Okeagbe, is a graduate of the School for the Handicapped in Ikare Akoko.

Adefemi recalled how the school transformed his life, giving him the opportunity to acquire skills and education that enabled him to become self-reliant.

According to him, the school turned what many considered disability into source of strength and ability.

“Before attending the school, life was extremely difficult. But the education and support I received changed everything. The school is a blessing”.

”The truth is that the establishment of the school have drastically reduced street begging, we appreciate the govt of its efforts.

“I was given the tools to succeed, and today, I am not just surviving, I’m living with dignity, taking care of my family, and serving my community.”

Similarly, Sikiru Aosaba, a retired instructor and former student of the School for the Blind in Owo, narrated how the institution empowered him to live independently and provide for his family.

He credited the school for his successful career and urged continued support for such initiatives.

“That school gave me hope and a future,” Aosaba said.

“I never imagined I would be able to work, raise a family, and live a fulfilling life despite my condition. It’s all thanks to the foundation the school gave me.”

“The school gave opportunity to access education, I really appreciate God in my life.

However, both men encouraged the state government to strengthen its commitment to special education.

They also called on well-meaning individuals and philanthropists not to abandon the schools but to support them actively, emphasizing that such contributions help in transforming lives and building a more inclusive society.