Special needs schools across Osun State are currently closed, leaving many students without access to education due to a significant funding crisis. The situation has arisen as the state government struggles to secure adequate financial resources to support essential services such as boarding and feeding for the students.

The Osun State Secondary School for Students with Special Needs in Osogbo, along with other institutions in Ilesa and Iwo, has been unable to welcome students back to class despite the resumption of academic activities in other schools across the state. This has raised serious concerns among parents and advocates regarding the continuity of education for children who require specialized support.

During a recent assessment visit to the Osogbo school, the Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, addressed the funding challenges, stating that the government is currently unable to guarantee the welfare of the students. Eluwole emphasized that the closure is primarily due to the lack of funds necessary for the boarding and feeding programs, which are crucial for the students' daily needs. He attributed the financial shortfall to the Federal Government's failure to release local government allocations to the state.

Eluwole appealed to concerned citizens to urge the Federal Government to expedite the release of these funds, which are essential for the welfare of students with special needs. He noted that the outstanding funds are intended to support various educational requirements, including adequate accommodation and nutrition.

The Commissioner dismissed claims that the government is neglecting these students, asserting that the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke is committed to ensuring quality education despite the ongoing financial difficulties. He stressed that resuming classes without proper arrangements for the students' basic needs would be irresponsible.

Support for this position was echoed by Aremo Adekunle Alao, the Chairman of the Osun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and Executive Secretary Yahaya Bakare. They both agreed that students should not return to school until their welfare can be guaranteed. The school’s principal, Kamil Hussain, along with teachers Temitayo Obadare and Temitope Olaniyi, also expressed their gratitude for the state government's support while encouraging their colleagues to remain committed during this challenging time.

In addition to the funding issues, reports have surfaced indicating that a Federal High Court order affecting the state’s education sector may also be contributing to the ongoing closure of special needs schools. These institutions play a vital role in providing specialized education and resources for children with various disabilities, and their prolonged closure has intensified calls from parents and stakeholders for clarity on when classes will resume.

The Osun State Bureau for People with Disabilities, established under the state’s disability law, is tasked with promoting the inclusion and protection of persons with disabilities, ensuring access to education, and monitoring relevant policies. As the situation continues to unfold, many are left wondering how long these students will remain out of school and what measures will be taken to prevent further disruptions in their education.