BLIND GRADUATES CRY OUT FOR INCLUSION: Bauchi Association Demands Equal Employment Opportunities

By Samuel Luka, Bauchi

The Nigeria Association of the Blind, Bauchi State Chapter, has called for inclusivity in the process of employment opportunities in the state. The association made the call in a press release on Wednesday, appealing to the Bauchi State Government to prioritize the employment and inclusion of blind graduates in Bauchi State.

Titled “Inclusive Employment for Blind Graduates in Bauchi State Chapter,” the press release called on National Assembly members from Bauchi, the state government, and stakeholders to prioritize the employment and inclusion of blind graduates in Bauchi State. The release, which emanated from the Office of the Youth Leader, Nigerian Association of the Blind, Bauchi State Chapter, lamented that despite their qualifications and capabilities, blind individuals face significant challenges in securing employment, thereby perpetuating social exclusion and stigma.

We urge those in electoral positions to consider persons with disabilities in their appointments, promoting equal access and opportunities

“As we move forward, we urge those in electoral positions to consider persons with disabilities in their appointments, promoting equal access and opportunities,” the association said. “This includes inclusive education and employment opportunities. We request that the government and relevant stakeholders take immediate action to address the unemployment crisis facing blind graduates in Bauchi State,” the press release added.

Signed by Shafi’u Usman, Secretary of the Association in Bauchi, the release opined that the request can be achieved through initiatives such as job training programs, mentorship schemes, and inclusive hiring practices. “We believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities, regardless of their abilities. Let us work together to create a more inclusive society,” the association said.

We demand accessible education for blind students, including Braille materials, audio descriptions, and sign language interpretation

The Blind Association called on the government and private sector to implement inclusive hiring practices, providing equal opportunities for blind graduates. “We demand accessible education for blind students, including Braille materials, audio descriptions, and sign language interpretation,” the association said. They also demanded that the government consider persons with disabilities in scholarship and ensure that scholarship programs are inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities.

The association equally called for the appointment of persons with disabilities to head the Office of Special Adviser (SA) on disability matters and legislative aid on disability matters.