In Nigeria, many children with disabilities are excluded from formal education due to inadequate infrastructure, a lack of trained teachers, and widespread stigma. The high cost of private schooling further limits access, especially for low-income families, while public schools often suffer from poor quality, underpaid staff, and insufficient resources. As a result, many children drop out early, especially those with special needs, whose families often cannot afford both healthcare and education.

Compounding these issues is a lack of awareness about disability rights and available support services, leading to further marginalization. Youth with disabilities face high unemployment rates due to limited vocational training and discrimination in the job market. Additionally, there is minimal access to assistive technology and early intervention programs, leaving many developmental issues undiagnosed and unaddressed.

Goals

The goals of the project are to promote equitable access to education, foster social inclusion and intergenerational connections, improve the well-being of older adults, and strengthen community resilience and long-term sustainability.

Activities

• Establish Inclusive Learning Hubs: set up accessible educational centers equipped with adaptive learning tools, trained teachers, and assistive technologies to support learners of all abilities;
• Develop an Intergenerational Mentorship Program: connect students with older adults to facilitate knowledge-sharing, promote mutual respect, and strengthen social cohesion;
• Create Safe and Supportive Care Environments: provide dedicated spaces where older adults can access healthcare, engage in lifelong learning, and participate in community life;
• Empower Local Educators and Caregivers: offer training on inclusive education practices and quality care for the elderly, strengthening local capacity;
• Implement Sustainable Community Programs: lead public awareness campaigns, workshops, and advocacy initiatives to support inclusive education and elder care policies;
• Establish Skills Acquisition Centers: expand access to vocational training for youth and adults, including people with disabilities;
• Build Dormitories for Vulnerable Groups: construct safe, adapted living facilities for individuals with disabilities, low-income students, and older adults to ensure dignified living conditions.

Myriad Canada is working with the ISIEC Foundation on this project, a nonprofit registered in Nigeria whose mission is to provide inclusive and equitable education from early childhood through tertiary education and to create safe and comfortable learning environments that promote physical and emotional well-being, autonomy, and social connection for ageing individuals.