Union Bank of Nigeria has thrown its support behind inclusive education by sponsoring the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf Mathematics Competition, held at the Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired in Surulere, Lagos.
The competition, themed “Impacting Deaf Students and Life with Mathematics in Nigeria,” was supported through UnionCares, the bank’s Corporate, Sustainability and Innovation Initiative. It brought together representatives from Union Bank, the Lagos State Education Board, school principals, and teachers to witness a celebration of academic excellence among deaf students.
Ten participants, drawn from schools within and beyond the deaf community in Lagos, competed in the exercise designed to bridge educational gaps and spotlight the intellectual abilities of hearing-impaired learners.
Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to inclusive development. “We continue to invest in platforms like this because we believe every child deserves an opportunity to thrive,” she said. “The students today have shown that disability is not inability. They are thinkers and problem-solvers, reshaping narratives with their brilliance.”
Francis Ajomiwe, Founder and Executive Director of the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf, expressed gratitude to Union Bank for supporting the vision of the Foundation. Speaking through an interpreter, he noted that the organization remains dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for the deaf community through targeted program and initiatives.
The Lagos State Education Authority was represented by Bukunola Famakinwa, who stressed the need for inclusive learning approaches, especially in mathematics. She pointed out that with the right support, deaf learners can excel in subjects often perceived as difficult. “Mathematics empowers learners to solve problems and participate fully in society,” she said, urging the broader education community to create systems that support every learner, regardless of their hearing ability.
At the end of the competition, Samuel Megbodofo emerged as the top performer, followed by Tomilola Shonubi and Opeoluwa Saka in second and third place, respectively. All winners received branded gifts and prizes from Union Bank. Other competitors, as well as participating learners and teachers, also received branded items in recognition of their involvement.
The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive education in Nigeria and the role of the private sector in advancing equity and access for all learners.
