Osun special needs schools remain shut as funding crisis delays resumption

Special needs schools in Osun State have remained closed to students due to a funding crisis that has delayed their resumption. The state government lacks sufficient funds to provide boarding and feeding for the children, who attend schools located in Osogbo, Ilesa, and Iwo. Despite the start of academic activities across the state, students at the Osun State Secondary School for Students with Special Needs in Osogbo are still at home, raising concerns about their continued education.

The Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, explained the financial challenges during an assessment visit, stating that the non-resumption of students is due to the unavailability of funds for their boarding and feeding programme. He blamed the delay on the non-release of local government allocations by the Federal Government and appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to encourage the Federal Government to release the funds owed to Osun State.

Eluwole dismissed claims of deliberate neglect of the students, emphasizing that the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke is committed to providing quality education despite financial difficulties. He stressed that recalling students without proper arrangements for their food and other basic needs would be inappropriate, as their welfare must be considered before resumption.

The Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Osun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) supported Eluwole's position, urging the resumption of students only when their welfare can be guaranteed. The school's principal and two teachers also praised the state government's support for the institution.

Reports suggest that the continued closure of special needs schools across Osun State is also linked to a Federal High Court order impacting the state's education sector. The affected institutions cater to children with various disabilities, offering specialized teaching, learning materials, and facilities tailored to meet their individual educational needs.

The prolonged closure has prompted calls from parents and stakeholders for clarification on reopening dates and measures to prevent further disruption to the children's education.