Celebrating Universal Children’s Day: Advocating inclusion, breaking barriers

In a bid to commemorate Universal Children’s Day, the Center for Leadership and Good Governance Int’l, in collaboration with NGM Group, orchestrated a thought-provoking lecture, advocating inclusion and breaking barriers among children.

The event, titled ‘Inclusion for Every Child’, held at Bunker Hall, Ring road, Ibadan on November 21, 2023, not only delved into the essence of inclusivity, but also featured an award ceremony recognising noteworthy individuals in honour of the day.

The distinguished Guest of Honour and Award Recipient, Dr Mrs Olajumoke Akere, expressed that children stand as our greatest resource, breaking barriers. In her address, she underscored the Universal Children’s Day as a global celebration, emphasizing its role in reminding institutions, parents, communities, and governments of their responsibilities in upholding children’s rights unconditionally.

Dr Akere highlighted the crucial role of providing children with the necessary tools for success, firmly believing that such empowerment leads to achievements beyond imagination.

She said, “It is impertinent to believe that if children are given the necessary tools to succeed, they will succeed beyond their wildest dreams.”

She referenced the Declaration on the Rights of the Child, emphasising children’s entitlement to food, healthcare, education, and protection from exploitation.

Furthermore, Dr Akere shed light on the significance of inclusion, noting that it promotes equal access to opportunities and resources, especially for those with disabilities or belonging to minority groups.

Addressing the long-term consequences of discrimination, she urged for a collective effort to fight against such disparities, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in schools, communities, and homes.

On her path, she added that Jsay prevarsity, “as a school, awards scholarship annually to deserving students to study at the college to promote inclusion.”

The Founder of Olumoepti Group of Schools, Dr Okunola Adekunle Williams, approached the subject of inclusion from various perspectives: as a pastor, scientist, and security expert. He encouraged children not to let their backgrounds hinder their chances, emphasising the right to inclusion for every child.

As a scientist, Williams stressed the moral and strategic imperative of total inclusion. He argued that empowering every child to reach their full potential is an investment in the future of society, driving innovation and progress. Williams asserted society’s responsibility to ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and support systems for every child.

In advocating for total inclusion, Williams urged a holistic approach, going beyond the conventional understanding of inclusive education. He championed equal opportunities for all children, regardless of background or abilities, citing the benefits of inclusion for both individuals and society as a whole.

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