Disability Projects Initiative

14/07/2025

A LONE KID:

Most children are lonely no matter how many people are around them, so long as there is no one listening to them. They feel isolated, unheard, and not catching up with things around them.

Don't you see? Even when it comes to school, getting married, and things like that, the deaf child is slowly moving, unlike their normal peers. You will see their juniors complete their educational journey too early for them, get married, and have kids. Some will even make it in life better and faster than the deaf sibling.

Do you know why? The answer is because the mostly live in an , not , world. Their thinking and way of doing things differ—the reverse is the case for some, while it is even worse for others. Yet the family of such persons doesn't mind figuring out what is supposed to be done too early, or they are ignoring the fact that they can do something to help their child.

Please, do what is necessary for your child, not when it's late.

Note this: I myself am deaf, and I'm happy being who I am. I have a dream, a goal, and lots of wishes that I want to grab in real life—but how? I must work out for it, and I must lean on someone unbreakable, and that is Allah the Almighty. Humans change. Humans are mortal. They are cruel and full of themselves—there are still good ones at every corner of the world regardless of place.

Auwalu Ismaila Salisu Ismail
Research officer 2
Disability Projects Initiative.

13/07/2025

"To the People of Nigeria,

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Nigerians and family of His Excellency, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), the former president of Nigeria on his recent passing away.

During his tenure as President of Nigeria, General Buhari made significant contributions to the nation's development, particularly in the area of rights. The signing into of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 stands out as a landmark achievement, demonstrating his commitment to and social . The establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria further underscored his dedication to empowering and protecting the of persons with .

As he rests in peace, we pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him eternal peace. We wish him a safe journey to the hereafter.

May Allah grant him Aljannah Firdausi.

11/07/2025

The Disability Projects Initiative commends Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the bold and commendable step of approving over ₦3 billion for the renovation and reopening of 13 boarding secondary schools across Kano State. This intervention aligns with the goals of SDG 4 in ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

We are especially pleased that this effort will enhance access to education for girls in rural communities, a critical step toward closing existing educational gaps. DPI urges that, as these schools are being renovated, accessibility features such as ramps, inclusive toilets, signage, and learning support facilities should be integrated to accommodate students with disabilities.

True educational reform must be inclusive by design. We look forward to working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind regardless of ability.



Global Partnership for Education Sightsavers British Council Nigeria FCDO PLANE Nigeria Mastercard Foundation MacArthur Foundation Disability Rights Fund Ministry of Education, Kano.

PRESS RELEASE 11/07/2025

K-SAFE Commends Gov. Yusuf for Approving N3 Billion for Renovation And Reopening of 13 Boarding Schools in Kano State

The Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) warmly commended His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, for the recent approval of ₦3,039,878,601 for the general renovation of 13 boarding secondary schools across the state. This landmark decision signals a renewed commitment to revitalizing public education and reversing the troubling trend of school closures witnessed in previous administrations.

The affected schools, which were shut down by the immediate past administration, include:

1. Government Girls Secondary School, Unguwar Gyartai

2. Government Girls Secondary School, Gezawa

3. Government Girls Secondary School, Sumaila

4. Government Girls Secondary School, Kwa

5. Government Girls Secondary School, Albasu

6. Government Girls Secondary School, Madobi

7. Government Girls Secondary School, Yar Gaya

8. Government Girls Secondary School, Jogana

9. Government Girls Secondary School, Danzabuwa

10. Unity College, Karaye

11. Government Girls Unity School, Kachako

12. Government Girls Secondary School, Jambaki

13. Government College, Tudun Wada

The renovation and planned reopening of these schools represent a major step forward in tackling the growing number of out-of-school children in Kano State and ensuring that every child, especially girls, has access to safe, inclusive, and quality education.

K-SAFE, alongside civil society partners, has consistently advocated for the rehabilitation and reactivation of these critical learning institutions, recognizing their importance in expanding access to secondary education—particularly for girls in rural and underserved communities.

This courageous and timely intervention by Governor Abba K. Yusuf will not only improve educational infrastructure but will also restore public confidence in the state’s commitment to equitable and quality learning opportunities for all.

We call on all relevant stakeholders—ministries, school management boards, communities, and development partners—to work collaboratively to ensure the transparent, timely, and quality ex*****on of the renovation projects.

Education is a right, not a privilege. The reopening of these schools will serve as a legacy of hope and progress for thousands of Kano children and youth.

Signed:
Dr. Auwalu Halilu
Co-chair, K-SAFE (CSOs).

Abba Kabir Yusuf
Kano State Government Ministry of Education, Kano.
Umm-Kulthum Muhammad Rakana
Auwalu Halilu
Abdussalam M Kani
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim

08/07/2025

SDG 4 and Disability ♿

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” In relation to , 4 is particularly significant because persons with disabilities (PWDs) are among the most excluded and marginalized groups in education systems worldwide.

📌 Key Aspects of SDG 4 in Relation to Disability

1. Inclusive Education:
SDG 4 emphasizes inclusive education systems that cater to with disabilities.

It calls for removing (physical, communication, attitudinal) and providing reasonable accommodation, assistive technologies, and support services.

This aligns with Article 24 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ( ), which affirms the right of persons with disabilities to inclusive education at all levels.

2. Equal Access to All Levels of Education:
Target 4.5 aims to eliminate disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities.

This requires accessible infrastructure, materials in accessible formats (e.g., Braille, sign language), and trained .

3. Early Childhood and Lifelong Learning:
Target 4.2 includes ensuring to quality early childhood development, critical for children with disabilities to reach their full potential.

Lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3 & 4.4) must also be inclusive of and adults with disabilities, especially for technical and vocational education.

4. Monitoring and Data Disaggregation:
Target 4.5 calls for disaggregated by disability to monitor equity in education access and outcomes.

Many countries still lack robust data on learners with disabilities, which hinders effective planning and .

🚫 Challenges

1. Inaccessible infrastructure.

2. Lack of trained teachers and inclusive .

3. Social stigma and .

4. High dropout rates among with disabilities.

5. Limited funding for inclusive .

✅ What Needs to Be Done

1. Invest in inclusive education .

2. Train teachers on inclusive pedagogy and disability .

3. Provide assistive devices and .

4. Enforce disability-inclusive and budgets.

5. Ensure active participation of persons with disabilities and their in education planning.

Therefore, SDG 4 cannot be achieved without addressing the educational exclusion faced by persons with . Ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education for persons with disabilities is not only a matter of human rights but also essential for building sustainable, just, and knowledgeable societies.

Disability Projects Initiative is advocating for
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Sightsavers Disability Rights Fund Disability Not A Barrier Initiative Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Billion-Strong Global Disability Innovation Hub Global Action on Disability Network Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria Disability Rights Advocacy Center - DRAC JonapwdNational Disability:IN Global Disability Inclusion, LLC Global Partnership for Education Global Goals for Sustainable Development UN Sustainable Development Platform International Disability Alliance Inclusive News Network Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Kano State Accountability Forum on Education KANO CIVIL Society FORUM Kano Network of NGOs - KANET VSO Youth Volunteering GivFree Africa Ameenerh Queen Abubakar Nura Yusuf Aisha Kwaku & Associates Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative AWWDI Hamza Aminu Fagge Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled Mastercard Foundation MacArthur Foundation Network For Youth Enlightenment and Development N-YED Network for youth enlightenment development. British Council British Council Nigeria

11/06/2025

📢 Attention: Kano State Disability Community!

In line with our unwavering commitment to inclusive education, the Disability Projects Initiative (DPI) is pleased to announce the availability of 20 FREE admission forms for the Aminu Kano College of Islamic and Legal Studies.

📌 These forms are exclusively reserved for persons with disabilities who are passionate about furthering their education at this esteemed institution.

Interested applicants or those seeking further information should kindly contact:

Zainab Tijjani Garba
Gender Officer,
Disability Projects Initiative (DPI)
📱 07036981325

Let’s continue to break barriers and build a more inclusive future — together!
Aminu kano college of islamic and legal studies kano,buk road

25/05/2025

Disability Inclusion & the SDGs ♿

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations in 2015, provide a comprehensive framework to address global challenges and promote a better and more sustainable future for all by 2030. These goals are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that no one left behind, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Let’s break down how the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) connect to the rights and needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs):-

SDG 1: No Poverty
PWDs are more likely to live in poverty due to barriers in education, jobs, and social support. We must create inclusive programs to lift all out of poverty.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger
Many PWDs face food insecurity. Access to farming tools, food programs, and nutrition must be inclusive!

SDG 3: Good Health & Well-being
PWDs often can’t access quality healthcare. Health services must be inclusive, accessible, and responsive to their needs.

SDG 4: Quality Education
Children with disabilities deserve inclusive, accessible schools. Education is a right, not a privilege!

SDG 5: Gender Equality
Women and girls with disabilities face double discrimination. Gender and disability rights must go hand in hand.

SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation
Accessible toilets and water points are essential for dignity and health. WASH must include PWDs!

SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy
Access to electricity powers assistive devices and promotes independence. Energy plans must be disability-inclusive.

SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
PWDs are often unemployed. We need inclusive hiring, skills training, and accessible workspaces.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Let’s build accessible roads, tech, and systems so PWDs can thrive in a modern world.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequality
To reduce inequality, we must dismantle discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for PWDs in every sector.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities
From transportation to public spaces, cities must be accessible so everyone can participate fully.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production
PWDs should have access to sustainable lifestyles and green jobs. Inclusion is key to a sustainable future.

SDG 13: Climate Action
PWDs are often excluded from climate plans. Their voices and needs must be part of the solution.

SDG 14: Life Below Water
PWDs should benefit from and contribute to the protection of marine resources. Everyone has a role to play.

SDG 15: Life on Land
PWDs must have equal access to land, resources, and environmental protection efforts.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
PWDs need equal access to justice and must be included in decision-making processes.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Real progress needs inclusive data, voices, and policies. Let’s work together to include PWDs in every step!

Let’s achieve the by leaving no one behind.
__________________________________________________
British Council Nigeria VSO Youth Volunteering Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Disability Not A Barrier Initiative DFID Nigeria Global Action on Disability Network Billion-Strong Disability Rights Florida GivFree Africa Safullahi Mukhtar Sadiq Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP KANO CIVIL Society FORUM Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Abdulrahman Isah Abubakar British Council National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria JonapwdNational Global Disability Innovation Hub Kano State Accountability Forum on Education Network for youth enlightenment development Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities Disability Rights Advocacy Center - DRAC Disability:IN Disability Rights Fund Sightsavers FCDO PLANE Nigeria UN Sustainable Development Platform Global Goals for Sustainable Development Inclusive News Network Inclusive Friends Association International Disability Alliance International Labour Organization Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled Kano Network of NGOs - KANET Kasham Girls, Women, Youth and Community Development Network Network For Youth Enlightenment and Development N-YED Young African Leaders Initiative - YALI Abuja Abubakar Nura Yusuf Ameenerh Queen Mastercard Foundation MacArthur Foundation

23/02/2025

Disability Inclusion Barriers ♿

Disability barriers are obstacles that prevent persons with (PWDs) from fully participating in society on an equal basis with others. These can be categorized into attitudinal, physical, and institutional barriers.

(1) Attitudinal Barriers:
These are negative , stereotypes, and prejudices toward PWDs. They are often the most fundamental barriers to inclusion because they influence behavior, , and societal structures. Examples include:

A. Stereotyping – Assuming that are incapable, dependent, or less productive.

B. Discrimination – Excluding or marginalizing PWDs in , education, and social interactions.

C. Pity and Charity Mindset – Viewing PWDs as objects of charity rather than individuals with and abilities.

D. Low Expectations – Assuming that PWDs cannot achieve success in , employment, or leadership roles.

(2) Physical Barriers:
These are obstacles in the built that restrict the mobility and independence of PWDs. They make public spaces, , and buildings inaccessible. Examples include:

A. Inaccessible Buildings – Lack of ramps, elevators, accessible toilets, or wide for wheelchair users.

B. Poor Transportation Facilities – Lack of accessible public transport, making difficult for PWDs.

C. Inaccessible Workplaces – Offices, factories, and businesses without accommodations like assistive , adjustable desks, or accessible pathways.

D. Lack of Signage and Information Accessibility – Absence of braille, audio instructions, or sign language interpreters in public .

(3) Institutional Barriers:
These include , policies, and practices that exclude or do not adequately accommodate persons with disabilities. Examples include:

A. Discriminatory Policies – Employment, education, and healthcare policies that do not include reasonable for PWDs.

B. Lack of Disability-Inclusive Education – that do not provide special education programs, assistive devices, or inclusive teaching methods.

C. Workplace Barriers – Absence of inclusive practices, disability-friendly HR policies, or workplace accommodations.

D. Limited Political Participation – Electoral processes, stations, and political platforms that are not accessible to PWDs.

Therefore, addressing these barriers requires legal reforms, infrastructure improvements, and campaigns to promote inclusion, , and social for PWDs in all aspects of life.

Let's advocate for barrier-free society to ensure disability inclusion.

✍️ Abdulrahman Isah Abubakar
Research, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer.
______________________________________
Sightsavers International Labour Organization National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria Inclusive Friends Association Disability Not A Barrier Initiative Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP KANO CIVIL Society FORUM VSO Youth Volunteering JonapwdNational DFID Nigeria Network for youth enlightenment development Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Global Disability Inclusion, LLC Global Disability Innovation Hub Billion-Strong Global Action on Disability Network Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Kano State Accountability Forum on Education Widi-Jalo Foundation GivFree Africa Disability Rights Fund Disability Rights Advocacy Center - DRAC Disability:IN Disability Rights Florida Disability Advocacy International Disability Alliance International IDEA Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities Safullahi Mukhtar Sadiq Abubakar Nura Yusuf Ameenerh Queen Hamza Aminu Fagge Humanity & Inclusion US Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled Kano Network of NGOs - KANET Aisha Kwaku & Associates British Council British Council Nigeria

19/02/2025

World Day of Social Justice – February 20, 2025 ♿

On this World Day of Social , we unite under the theme: “Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice” This day reminds us of the urgent need to break down that hinder equality, equity and justice, ensuring that no one especially marginalized groups such as persons with is left behind.

True social justice means creating equitable opportunities, fostering inclusive policies, and dismantling systemic in education, employment, healthcare, and political participation. It requires collective action from governments, civil society, and individuals to build a where is celebrated, and every person has the chance to thrive.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to bridging gaps, advocating for fairness, and empowering to create a just and equitable world for all.

✍️ Abdulrahman Isah Abubakar,
Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer,
Disability Projects Initiative (DPI).
______________________________________________
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria Sightsavers Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP Inclusive Friends Association Disability Not A Barrier Initiative KANO CIVIL Society FORUM VSO Youth Volunteering JonapwdNational Network for youth enlightenment development DFID Nigeria Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion Global Disability Inclusion, LLC Global Disability Innovation Hub Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Global Action on Disability Network Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Billion-Strong GivFree Africa International IDEA International Disability Alliance International Labour Organization Aisha Kwaku & Associates Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative AWWDI Humanity & Inclusion US Human Rights Campaign Jonapwd Jonapwd Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled Kano Network of NGOs - KANET Kano State Accountability Forum on Education Safullahi Mukhtar Sadiq Abubakar Nura Yusuf Ameenerh Queen Hamza Aminu Fagge Plan International Nigeria United Nations Human Rights United Nations Widi-Jalo Foundation

16/02/2025

Reality, Equality, Equity, and Justice are Concepts and Practices in relation to Disability Inclusion ♿

1. Reality:
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) often face and marginalization in society. Few receive adequate support, but many face significant barriers and receive insufficient .

2. Equality:
Providing equal treatment and to all individuals, including PWDs, may not address their unique needs. This approach can perpetuate , as PWDs require different peculiar support to participate fully.

3. Equity:
Equity involves providing tailored support and reasonable to meet the diverse needs of PWDs. This ensures equal opportunities and , acknowledging that different individuals require different levels of support.

4. Justice:
Justice requires addressing and removing the systemic and structural that exclude PWDs. This involves designing accessible and inclusive environments, policies and practices that allow to participate fully without discrimination, promoting a culture of and .

Let's Advocate for Social Justice to remove barriers and ensure Disability inclusion.

✍️ Abdulrahman Isah Abubakar,
Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer,
Disability Projects Initiative (DPI).



Sightsavers National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP Disability Rights Advocacy Center - DRAC Disability Rights Fund Inclusive Friends Association Network For Youth Enlightenment and Development N-YED Disability Not A Barrier Initiative KANO CIVIL Society FORUM Disability:IN Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities VSO Youth Volunteering Kano Network of NGOs - KANET Safullahi Mukhtar Sadiq JonapwdNational Aisha Kwaku & Associates DFID Nigeria Network for youth enlightenment development International IDEA International Disability Alliance International Labour Organization Disabled People's International (DPI) Global Disability Inclusion, LLC GivFree Africa Global Action on Disability Network Global Disability Innovation Hub Humanity & Inclusion US Human Rights Watch Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion United Nations Human Rights Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education Human Rights Campaign Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) Jonapwd Jonapwd Kanawa Educational Foundation for the Disabled United Nations United Nations Nigeria Hamza Aminu Fagge Abubakar Nura Yusuf Ameenerh Queen Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative AWWDI Light for the World Ford Foundation Disability Rights Fund - Nigeria Billion-Strong MacArthur Foundation Mastercard Foundation

24/01/2025

International Day of Education

A statement made by the Executive Director of the Disability Projects Initiative on the International Day of Education 2025:

Education is a transformative tool for empowerment and progress, yet millions of persons with disabilities continue to face systemic to accessing this basic right. On this International Day of 2025, we reflect on the critical need to break down these barriers and ensure that inclusive education becomes a reality for all.

Despite global recognition of education as a human , obstacles such as inaccessible infrastructure, limited assistive , inadequate teacher training, and societal stigmas persist. These challenges deny persons with disabilities the to learn and thrive. Addressing them requires collective action and commitment.

At the Disability Projects Initiative, we emphasize that inclusive education means more than enrollment. It demands systemic reforms, such as accessible policies, investments in assistive , and empowering teachers to meet diverse needs. Communities must also embrace , creating spaces where diversity is celebrated, not marginalized.

This day serves as both a celebration of progress and a call to action. Together, let us commit to ensuring that no one is excluded from the transformative power of education. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can build a where every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

Let's join hands to advancing inclusive education for all.

Happy international day of education.

✍️ Abubakar Nura Yusuf
Executive Director,
Disability Projects Initiative (DPI).

______________________________________
National Commission for Persons with Disabilities- NCPWD, Nigeria Sightsavers Abdulrahman Isah Abubakar Ameenerh Queen Hamza Aminu Fagge Safullahi Mukhtar Sadiq JonapwdNational Highlight Aisha Kwaku & Associates Disability Rights Fund Disability Rights Advocacy Center - DRAC Disability Rights Protection Initiative - DRP Disability:IN Disability Not A Barrier Initiative DFID Nigeria VSO Youth Volunteering YES Initiative Network For Youth Enlightenment and Development N-YED Network for youth enlightenment development Inclusive Friends Association Kano Network of NGOs - KANET KANO CIVIL Society FORUM Skill Acquisition Institute for People with Disabilities

04/01/2025

Currently Ongoing (11:30am to 1:00pm)

The virtual Event on the Commemoration of World Braille Day 4th January 2025.

The event features a keynote presentation by Ibrahim Umar Abdulkarim, a blind teacher and vice principal at Special Education School Tudun Maliki, Kano State Nigeria.

The topic to be presented is:
“Can Braille Be Looked at as Obsolete Because of the Availability of ICT Gadgets for the Blind?”.

Theme of the Year: “Celebrating Accessibility and Inclusion for the Visually Impaired”.

Join the Event via this Link: 👇
https://meet.google.com/zot-iowb-sds

04/01/2025

World Braille Day 4th January, 2025

Theme: “Celebrating Accessibility and Inclusion for the Visually Impaired”.

World Day, observed every year on January 4th, honors the legacy of Braille, the inventor of the Braille system, which has transformed lives by empowering visually impaired individuals with access to , communication, and independence.

This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of and , reminding us of the need to build a that supports equal for all. From inclusive to accessible , our collective efforts can ensure that no one is left behind.

Let’s celebrate the achievements of the impaired and advocate for a more inclusive world.