THE Anambra State Education Programme Investment Project in collaboration with a Markurdi based Consulting firm has commenced a five-day training for special needs teachers on innovative and modern teaching techniques.
The training which is ongoing in Awka, the Anambra state capital, attracted the Commissioner for Basic Education, Professor Kate Omenugha, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Linus Nwankwo, Chairman Post Primary Schools, Service Commission, Lady Joy Ulasi, the Consultant, Mr Matthew Adoga, as well as Special needs teachers.
Declaring the training open, Professor Omenugha, reiterated the importance of increasing the capacity of special needs people, noting that individuals with disability are human beings with equal value and dignity, who should not be dissociated or discriminated against in the society.
The Commissioner also called on teachers of students living with disabilities to professionally train them to ensure that their educational goals are realised.
In his Presentation, the lead trainer, Mr Adoga, noted that the special education sector in Anambra State is one of the most organized across the country, and commended the State government for recording such outstanding achievement.
Another Consultant on the Programme, Mr Steve Nwafor, who enlightened the participants on methods for training, autistic children decried that such children have been underserved, underprivileged, and marginalised.
Mr Nwafor who explained that children with autism can learn, make progress and grow up to function effectively with an appropriate education, support and services, urged teachers to use the teaching strategies to teach persons with autism.
One of the participants, Reverend Sister Nazarene Ezenabo expressed joy that the training has to give her the opportunity to improve on her knowledge and skill.
The programme was aimed at assisting teachers and others working with pupils and students with special needs to effectively develop, implement, monitor and evaluate high-quality education programme on children living with disabilities.