FG to institutionalize teaching of sign language in basic education schools

By Mariam Abeeb

The Federal government has revealed that policy are in place to institutionalize the teaching and learning of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria.
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC Aisha Garba at the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child celebration organised by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) in Abuja, with the theme “Lead a Change: Learn Sign Language Today.”
He explained that the Commission is implementing policies to institutionalize sign language teaching nationwide and improve accessibility for learners with disabilities.
He stated that this does not in any way downplay challenges faced by persons living with other disabilities but demonstrate that collectively we can make the world a better place for each other if we try.
She added that UBEC is investing in teacher training, child protection, and health screenings to support inclusive education.
“Today, we take that commitment a step further by championing the learning of sign language in our basic education schools. This does not in any way downplay challenges faced by persons living with other disabilities but demonstrate that collectively we can make the world a better place for each other if we try.
“I would like to remind you that a policy is already in place to institutionalize the teaching and learning of sign language in all basic education schools across Nigeria.
“Imagine a country where hospitals, banks, supermarkets, airports and indeed schools have sign language interpreters, then you will have a system without communication barriers for our hearing-impaired children. That is the vision we are working towards, one school, one change, at a time.
“Our restructuring policy makes it mandatory for schools to include ramps and other accessibility structures, ensuring that children with physical disabilities can move with dignity and ease.”