The Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities has significantly contributed to the ongoing recruitment process of 7,500 teachers and 3,000 non-teaching staff, as approved by Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, aimed at enhancing the post-primary education sector in the state. In a focused effort to promote inclusivity, the agency provided extensive technical support and services during the interview exercise organized by the Oyo State Post-Primary Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) to select 250 teachers and 60 non-teaching staff among persons with disabilities.

The interview exercise, which took place on August 29, 2024, at the TESCOM head office in the State Secretariat, saw a substantial turnout of applicants. To ensure a smooth process, the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities arranged for essential support services, including sign language interpreters, wheelchair assistants, medical first aid, and ambulance services. These provisions were crucial in ensuring the exercise was conducted without any hitches, making it accessible and comfortable for all participants.

The Agency also facilitated the presence of consultants from the Department of Special Education at the University of Ibadan and representatives from the leadership of the Oyo State Chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). Their attendance helped guarantee that the interview exercise for persons with disabilities was seamless and inclusive.

Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, the Director General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, expressed his gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for his inclusive policies and efforts to support persons with disabilities. In his remarks, Barrister Adekanmbi reiterated the agency’s commitment to collaborating with relevant ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and corporate bodies to issue guidelines for designing accessible buildings and facilities. He emphasized that the agency’s core mandates include ensuring the realization of all rights for persons with disabilities, in accordance with the Oyo State Persons with Disabilities Law, by promoting inclusivity and safeguarding their well-being. The Director General added that the initiative will be replicated during the forthcoming SUBEB recruitment interview slated for September 10 2024

Pastor Akinade Alamu, the Chairman of TESCOM, commended the agency’s efforts, noting the importance of accommodating the special needs of persons with disabilities in the state. He explained that a dedicated day was set aside for their interview exercise to ensure they received the necessary attention and support. Pastor Alamu also expressed optimism for continued collaboration with the agency in coming future initiatives.

To streamline the interview process, the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities categorized the applicants into three groups: individuals with sight impairments, those who are deaf, and physically challenged persons. This categorization facilitated an organized and efficient interview process, ensuring that each group’s unique needs were adequately addressed.

This initiative by the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities is a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society, where every individual, regardless of ability, has equal access to opportunities and services.

Kayode Akinola,
IT & Technical Officer,
Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities