Dotun Akande Advocates for Disability Support Policies

At the 20th anniversary RISE Summit of Patrick’s Speech and Language Centre in Lagos, Dotun Akande, Founder and Director of the Centre and Pure Souls Learning Foundation, urged the government to implement policies that provide social support, respite care, education, and employment opportunities for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. Akande highlighted the need for the government to move beyond mere policy creation to effective implementation, ensuring the inclusion of people with neurodevelopmental and intellectual disabilities.

She noted the Centre's shift from early intervention for children to preparing young adults and adults for societal participation. Akande pointed out that while many children now access mainstream education, significant challenges remain for adults.

She called for the establishment of respite centres across Nigeria, operated through partnerships between the government and private organizations, to support parents and caregivers. Additionally, she advocated for housing assistance, subsidies, and educational support for families raising children with disabilities, emphasizing the necessity of reviewing and implementing existing disability-related legislation.