education

FG Makes Sign Language Compulsory in Basic Schools

Published

1 year ago

October 17, 2025

The Federal Government has introduced a policy to institutionalise sign language teaching and learning across all basic education schools in Nigeria

The Federal Government has announced a new policy to institutionalise the teaching and learning of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria, as part of efforts to promote inclusive education and ensure that no child is left behind.

Also read: Governor Okpebholo Reintroduces Edo Languages in Schools

The Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, disclosed this on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child in Abuja. The event was themed: “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”

Garba said the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to inclusion, particularly in the education and empowerment of girls, noting that the administration of President Bola Tinubu recognises education as “the great equaliser” with inclusion as its “backbone.”

She explained that the new policy would make sign language instruction compulsory within the basic education curriculum nationwide, creating communication-friendly learning environments for children with hearing impairments.

“We celebrate not only the potential of the girl child but also reaffirm our collective responsibility to amplify her voice, protect her dignity, and equip her for leadership — regardless of her abilities or challenges,” Garba said.

“Today, we take that commitment a step further by championing the learning of sign language in our basic education schools. This does not downplay the challenges faced by persons with other disabilities; it simply demonstrates that we can make the world better for each other if we try.”

She added that a policy framework is already in place to institutionalise sign language education alongside infrastructure upgrades, including ramps and accessibility features for learners with physical disabilities.

“Imagine a country where hospitals, banks, supermarkets, airports and schools all have sign language interpreters — then we will have a system without communication barriers for our hearing-impaired children. That is the vision we are working toward, one school, one change at a time,” Garba said.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, reiterated the administration’s resolve to remove educational barriers and expand access for all learners, regardless of background or circumstance.

“This moment reaffirms our nation’s commitment to inclusive education, to the rights of persons with disabilities, and to the expansive potential of every girl learner,” she said.

“Every girl deserves a voice, a seat at the table, and a path to success in education and life.”

Ahmad noted that inclusive education thrives when opportunity, support and belief intersect, urging schools and stakeholders to uphold equity and access nationwide.

Sign language education in Nigeria has gained momentum in recent years, driven by advocacy for inclusive communication and better access for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Also read: Alake urges closure of schools charging foreign fees

While Nigeria does not yet have a unified national sign language, American Sign Language (ASL) remains the most widely used in schools and among interpreters.

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education

Babcock Debunks Student’s Death Reports After Hostel Incident

Published

21 hours ago

November 10, 2026

Mariam Balogun

Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, has dismissed reports claiming that a student involved in an incident at one of its residential halls had died, confirming that he is alive and receiving medical treatment.

The institution said the student was responding positively to treatment at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital following injuries sustained during the incident.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the university’s Associate Vice-President, Communication, Media and Branding, Dr Johnson B. Akintayo.

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 8, and attracted public attention after videos showing the student near a hostel window ledge circulated on social media.

The footage showed some of his roommates attempting to restrain him and prevent him from falling.

According to the university, the situation was brought under control through the prompt intervention of the student’s roommates, whose actions helped prevent a more serious outcome.

However, the student and one of the roommates who participated in the rescue sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for medical attention.

“Contrary to reports suggesting that the student may have died, we wish to assure the public that he is responding positively to treatment and is receiving the necessary medical care,” the statement said.

The university disclosed that the injured roommate had been treated and discharged, while the affected student remained under medical care.

It added that the student’s parents had been contacted and were already on campus to support him during his recovery.

Babcock University also announced that it had commenced an investigation to establish the immediate and underlying circumstances surrounding the incident.

The institution said the investigation would help determine what happened, identify possible contributing factors and establish measures to prevent a recurrence.

It urged members of the public and media organisations to avoid circulating unverified information or speculating about the cause of the incident while the investigation remained ongoing.

The university further commended the roommates who intervened, describing their prompt response as instrumental in preventing a potentially more tragic outcome.

It also appealed for sensitivity and restraint in public discussions about the incident, particularly out of respect for the student and his family.

Babcock reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, health and welfare of its students and employees, adding that it would continue to monitor the student’s recovery and provide the necessary support.