BY JUDITH OBIANUA
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Mega Impact Foundation has stressed the need for educational inclusion for students, especially children with special needs, in both educational and social settings, as the world celebrates 2025 World Children’s Day.
This was said by the initiator of the foundation, Ms Florence Ogonegbu, as she highlighted the significance of World Children’s Day, as established by the United Nations celebrated every November 20.
“This is the 6th edition of the Champs and Pencil Green Arts Festival in celebration of World Children’s Day, celebrated at Madonna School for Children with Special Needs, to encourage creativity and amplify voices of children and child rights.”
According to her, this year’s celebration was themed; “Promoting Environmental Sustainability through the Eyes of Children.” Embodies the universal commitment to ensuring the well-being and rights of every child worldwide.
Ms Ogonegbu explained that the Green Arts Festival was introduced to create a platform for children to express their creativity while offering them exposure to national and international opportunities. She added that the initiative also serves as a means of sensitising children about their rights.
She applauded the sponsors for their commitment in ensuring that the programme was a success.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Delta State Ministry of Environment, Mr G. T.Enone praised the initiative as a laudable effort toward promoting inclusion. He pledged to engage the state government on the need to increase support for the school, noting that visibility and advocacy remain key areas of focus.
Children with special needs showcased impressive artworks made from recycled materials, including paintings, bags, and textiles. Among the standout pieces presented was a remarkable artwork created by a child with special needs, drawing commendation from guests.
Highlights of the ceremony include a drawing competition, exhibition of creative works, cultural performances, and the presentation of cash prizes to outstanding participants.
The drawing competition saw Ndubuisi Silver emerge as the overall winner, while Mbah Chinenye and Duke Philomena came in as first and second runners-up respectively. The prizes were sponsored by Mr Harrison Agboro.
The event also featured a symbolic tree-planting exercise within the school environment, led by the Permanent Secretary , Ministry of Environment, to further reinforce the message of environmental sustainability.
