Teachers lack training to support autistic, ADHD pupils – Experts

Education experts have highlighted a lack of teacher training in supporting children with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other forms of neurodiversity. During the African Neurodiversity Conference 2026, held at Children’s International School in Lagos, Professor Bolanle Olawuyi of the University of Ilorin emphasized that the removal of special education and psychology courses from teacher-training curricula has left many educators unprepared to handle neurodivergent learners.

Olawuyi pointed out that teachers often mistake learning differences for laziness and that children with ADHD are sometimes labeled as careless due to their difficulty sustaining attention. She warned that these misconceptions can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate placement in learning environments, as well as the absence of early identification and support, which could prevent children from reaching their full potential.

Olawuyi called for the restoration of special education and psychology courses in teacher-training programs and continuous professional development for existing teachers to better support neurodivergent learners.

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