Ahead of the World Disability Day, the Embassy of Israel in Nigeria in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development concluded a two-week long MASHAV (which is Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation) training for teachers and caregivers to children with special needs.
According to Zanswat Bowsan, Press Officer at the Israeli Embassy, the training was facilitated by two experts from Israel: Dr.Maly Danino and Mrs. Anant Zakai with teachers and caregivers from across Nigeria in attendance.
Topics ranged from children with learning disabilities to children on the autistic spectrum. Throughout the seminar, 25 special education professionals learned a series of practical educational models that are aimed to build their capacity and that of the organizations for which they work for.
During the opening ceremony the Charge D’Affaires of the Embassy. Mr. Nadav Goren noted that “Special needs education addresses a spectrum of individuals with disabilities – it empowers and enables them to be a more productive part of our society, ultimately improving society as a whole.”
The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar encouraged the participants not to relent in their service and stated that “Learning disabilities are usually specific, identifiable and inhibit the individuals from learning in accordance with his/her age, ability and potential. However, when adequately and appropriately assisted and cared for, these children…can become valued members of society.”
After a rigorous seminar, the trainees left equipped with a diverse tool kit of skills and knowledge. As MASHAV trainings are based on the concept of “train the trainers”, both parties are hopeful that the practical modules learned during the course will enhance the capacity of many professionals throughout Nigeria.
