The Centre for Infrastructural and Technological Advancement for the Blind (CITAB) has lavished praise on the Lagos State Government, particularly the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, for their bold move in empowering 300 individuals with disabilities through vocational training and start-up tools.
This follows a news report highlighting the government’s efforts to spread the love by offering vocational training and startup tools to uplift individuals with disabilities across the state.
In response, Jolomi George Fenemigho, the Executive Chairman of CITAB, couldn’t help but applaud the Lagos State Government for a job well done, describing the initiative as a step in the right direction.
He stated, “This is a commendable effort by the Lagos State Government, as previous programs often left disabled individuals out in the cold. This opportunity will ultimately provide each participant with valuable experiences and knowledge to lead a more meaningful life.”
Fenemigho encouraged the Lagos State Government to keep the flame burning and sustain this program, even as new administrations take the reins, to ensure the continued improvement of the lives and welfare of the disabled community in Lagos State.
Fenemigho remarked, “This empowerment training should extend beyond the current administration. It’s essential to have systematic and strategic planning in place to ensure the program’s longevity. Furthermore, the specifics of this initiative should be whispered into the ears of other states so that disabled persons outside Lagos State can also reap the benefits.”
Concluding, Fenemigho implored the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Empowerment to consistently keep the needs of individuals with disabilities at the top of their agenda. He suggested forming a dedicated committee to ensure that disabled individuals, particularly blind trainees and those with learning disabilities, fully grasp their training and to identify any areas where they may face challenges in understanding.
He said, “The learning process for sighted individuals, whether disabled or not, differs significantly from that of blind individuals and those with learning disabilities. The latter group requires step-by-step, real-time practical application for concepts to truly resonate. Relying solely on theoretical and verbal instruction can leave them in a state of bewilderment. Therefore, it is crucial to address disability-related matters with seriousness by providing ample resources and conducting one-on-one interviews to assess their strengths and weaknesses.”
