By Oluwafunke Ishola
Dr Mudi Nwachukwu, Founder of the Special Educational Needs & Therapy Empowerment (SENTE), has called for a future where kids with special needs grow into independent and working adults.
Nwachukwu, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos, ahead of the SENTE Conference and Trade Fair, emphasised that support must last a lifetime, long after the school years end.
Nwachukwu, also the Chair, Organising Commitee, SENTE, said many Nigerian families raising children with special needs have a pressing question that often lingers: what happens after school?
She noted that the SENTE Conference scheduled for Feb. 12, would focus on responding to the question and preparing children with special needs for independent and productive adulthood.
Nwachukwu noted that many parents and caregivers struggle with transition planning, employability, independent living and access to services once children with special needs reach adulthood.
The SENTE Conference, she explained, is designed to bridge these gaps by providing a practical platform where families can engage experts, policymakers and service providers on sustainable, life-long solutions.
According to her, the focus is on action, equipping parents and caregivers with tools and strategies they can apply within their own communities.
She disclosed that the event would feature expert-led panel discussions, hands-on workshops and exhibitions showcasing services, assistive technologies and innovations tailored to special needs care and development.
She recalled that the 2025 edition recorded strong participation from families, professionals and advocates, reflecting the growing demand for coordinated support systems for persons with special needs.
“Last year’s conference featured discussions on inclusive education, healthcare access and advocacy, alongside exhibitions by organisations providing therapy, assistive devices and support services.”
Feedback from participants, she said, revealed a clear need to move the conversation toward adulthood, long-term planning and economic empowerment.
“Those insights directly shaped the theme and structure of the 2026 conference, with increased emphasis on transition planning and future readiness.”
According to Nwachukwu, the inclusion requires shared responsibility and stronger public-private partnerships, critical to closing existing gaps.
She also described the conference as a key networking hub where families could connect with service providers and advocacy groups offering long-term support.
Nwachukwu said the event would draw educators, healthcare professionals, social workers, employers, policymakers and non-governmental organisations to strengthen collaboration on inclusive development.
Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
