Promoting Policy Awareness on the Rights of Special Needs Persons for Inclusive Education in Nigeria

Odinakachukwu Emmanuel Okeke; Albert Ulutorti Green

doi:10.28932/di.v17i2.10895

Authors

Odinakachukwu Emmanuel Okeke Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Albert Ulutorti Green St. Paul’s Theological College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.28932/di.v17i2.10895

Keywords:

Policy Awareness, Special Needs, Inclusive Education

Abstract

In order to effectively promote inclusion, this essay analyzes the urgent need for policy knowledge of the rights of people with special needs in Nigeria. Even with the passage of laws such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, systemic obstacles and general ignorance still make it difficult to put these laws into practice. The importance of policy knowledge is examined in the article, with particular attention paid to how it may empower people with disabilities, promote social justice and equity, increase policy implementation, and foster community integration. According to the report, key tactics for increasing awareness include government accountability, capacity building, stakeholder engagement, technology distribution, and grassroots community-based activities. Examples include training teachers in inclusive education, using local languages in campaigns, advocating on social media, and putting in place monitoring systems to make sure laws pertaining to disabilities are being followed. These tactics highlight the value of teamwork in closing the gap between practice and policy. The paper concludes by emphasizing the moral and developmental imperatives of promoting awareness of disability rights. It demands effective public education campaigns, cooperation with NGOs and commercial sector stakeholders, accessible communication, digital activism, and the inclusion of disability rights in school curricula. Lastly, it suggests accountability and monitoring systems to guarantee that the policy is followed. Policymakers, educators, campaigners, and stakeholders who are dedicated to building a more inclusive society should use this article as a guide since it offers practical insights and real-world examples.

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