Kwara holds skills acquisition training for people living with cerebral palsy

As part of activities marking the Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day on Monday, October 6, the Kwara State Government, in partnership with the Ifeoluwa Cerebral Palsy Initiative, has organised a special skills acquisition training for persons living with cerebral palsy, aimed at enhancing their independence and inclusion in society.

This was contained in a statement by Janet Bogunjoko, Press Secretary,
Ministry of Social Development on Monday.

Speaking during the event held at the Ministry of Social Development in Ilorin, the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, PhD, urged parents of children with cerebral palsy to prioritise their education and personal development to help them build meaningful and promising futures.

Represented by the Director of Personnel, Finance and Supply, Mrs. Taiwo Grace Toyin, the Commissioner cautioned against underrating children with disabilities. She encouraged parents to focus on their children’s abilities and potential, while drawing inspiration from success stories of people who have thrived despite similar challenges.

According to her, the training was designed to equip participants with practical skills that will enable them to overcome societal barriers and live independent, dignified lives.

“Our gathering today is not only about awareness but also about fostering understanding and inclusion. We are here to educate, empower, and inspire collective action toward a society that embraces all individuals, especially those living with health conditions like cerebral palsy,” Hajia Imam stated.

She also appealed to the general public to show empathy and support towards persons with cerebral palsy rather than discrimination, stressing that inclusive communities thrive when everyone contributes meaningfully.

Participants were trained in resin art, textile tie-dyeing, and Point of Sale (POS) operations, among other income-generating skills.