Members of the Deaf in Ondo State have called on the government and other stakeholders to promote their welfare and empowerment for a better life in the state.
Patricia Akinyemi, the Chairperson, Ondo State Association of the Deaf (ODSAD), while speaking during the opening ceremony of the 2025 International Day of Sign Language and 2nd Deaf Awareness Week Celebration, held at the Ondo NUJ Press Centre, Akure, said automatic employment should be given to deaf members of their association into senior and junior positions in the state civil service.
Akinyemi also said, “deploying sign language interpreters in government offices, hospitals, banks, Police stations, and television stations, especially on OSRC TV for deaf viewers.
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“Release the approved funds for the 2022 International Day of Sign Language, which have remained unreleased up till now and allocate funds for the 2025 IDSL celebration, considering that we have never received funding since the establishment of the disability agency, unlike other clusters.
“Providing empowerment and educational materials for deaf schools in the state and releasing the 2024 and 2025 annual subvention are very important.
“We appreciate the Governor’s recent efforts in employing some of our members into the State Teaching Service Commission (Deaf unit of Akure High School, Akure). We look forward to continued support in empowering the deaf community through various initiatives.
“We gather to celebrate the importance of sign language and raise awareness about the rights, concerns, needs, and welfare of Deaf individuals in our dear state. This celebration promotes inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all. As we commemorate this significant day, we recognise the vital role of sign language in bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hearing communities.”
Mike Ologbese, in his lecture entitled “Importance of sign language to the deaf in Ondo State and Nigeria at large,” said, “Sign language helps to bridge the communication gap between deaf and hearing communities and promotes understanding.
“It facilitates learning and cognitive development in deaf students, allowing them to access Education and acquire knowledge. Sign language promotes social interaction and integration, helping deaf individuals connect with others and build relationships.
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“By recognising and using sign language, deaf individuals can assert their rights, express themselves and participate fully in society. Sign language is an integral part of deaf culture, preserving and promoting the unique experiences and traditions of deaf community.”
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who spoke at the event, said sign language plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, accessibility and equal rights for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties, Bola Taiwo, therefore, said the welfare of the deaf in Ondo State is paramount to his administration.
