Founder of Let's Talk Humanity (LTH), Fatima Ganduje Abiola-Ajumobi, has unveiled plans to establish a National Resource Center for individuals with sensory impairment in Nigeria. The announcement was made during the documentary premiere of Let's Talk Humanity in Abuja.
Decade of Impact in Kano
For the past ten years, LTH has focused on empowering over one thousand deaf and blind persons annually at Tudun Maliki Special School in Kano. The organization has invested in technological gadgets to enhance education for the blind and deaf, significantly improving learning outcomes.
Expansion Beyond Northern Region
Speaking to journalists, Fatima highlighted the success in Kano and the need to extend support nationwide. She stated, "Our projection is to have a national center, a National Resource Center for those with sensory impairment, to tap into international knowledge and resources available in more developed parts of the world regarding special needs."
She emphasized the ripple effect of their work, noting that the school, which includes primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary levels, produces over 1,000 students each year. LTH has impacted these students through entrepreneurship training, aiming to make them financially stable and productive members of society.
Call for Partnerships
Fatima urged partners, advocates, and individuals willing to move from intention to action to support the initiative. She expressed optimism about positively affecting more lives in the coming years.
The event was attended by experts in disability education, federal and state government officials, staff, alumni, and students of Tudun Maliki Special School. Ibrahim Abdukabir, Vice Principal of the school, delivered a keynote speech on the impact of the Let's Talk Humanity Initiative.
Support from Former Governor
Former Kano State Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, father of the founder, praised the initiative and called on Northern Governors, development partners, and governments across the country to embrace it. He drew attention to neglected beggars with disabilities in the North, urging that they be given opportunities to develop into employers of labor and geniuses in various fields.
Minister's Remarks
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management Dr. Bernard M. Doro commended the initiative, emphasizing that society must consider People Living with Disabilities when designing programs or devices. He stated, "Inclusion of people with special needs is not an option but an obligation." He called for a future where accessibility is by design, with technology empowering individuals to navigate the world on their own terms.
