NAWOJ Pushes Inclusive Education, AI Learning at Delta Children’s Day Celebration

Strong calls for inclusive education, responsible parenting, digital literacy and equal opportunities for every child took centre stage at the 2026 Children’s Day celebration organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Delta State.

The colourful event, attended by pupils and students from primary and secondary schools, orphanage homes and special needs institutions across the state, focused on the theme: “Building Hope and Confidence in Every Child Through Care, Education and Love.”

Speakers at the programme stressed the urgent need for government, parents, teachers and the media to work together in building a future where every child feels valued, protected and empowered regardless of background or physical condition.

Chairperson of NAWOJ Delta, Sonia Unobunjo, said the celebration was not just about entertainment but about shaping the future of society through proper care and guidance for children.

According to her, the future of Nigeria depends largely on how today’s children are nurtured and supported.

“What we are doing today boils down to love, loving the children, loving the parents and loving ourselves without discrimination. The children of today will become the leaders and responsible adults of tomorrow,” she stated.

She commended parents and teachers for their sacrifices in raising children and urged families to provide emotional, moral and educational support without discrimination or neglect.

Delivering the keynote address, Director of Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopmental Foundation, Dr. Chijioke Nwoko, made a passionate appeal for true inclusive education and greater acceptance of children living with developmental and learning challenges.

Dr. Nwoko lamented that many children with special needs are physically present in schools but are often excluded socially and academically.

“One of the major challenges we have in society is exclusion. Many children are present in classrooms but are not truly included. Every child means every child, including children living with disabilities and developmental challenges,” he said.

He warned that isolating children with special needs damages their confidence and emotional wellbeing, urging schools to adopt flexible learning systems that accommodate different learning abilities.

Dr. Nwoko also challenged journalists and media organisations to use their platforms to amplify stories promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for all children.

Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), Emmanuel Enebeli, advocated for the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovation and digital literacy into children’s education.

He said Nigerian children must be equipped with technological and creative skills needed to compete in the evolving global economy.

According to him, AI should be positively introduced as a learning and innovation tool for children, while cautioning against uncontrolled exposure to social media.

“As stakeholders in the future of society, we must ensure technology is balanced with care, discipline, moral values and human interaction. The children we nurture today will determine the future of Delta State and Nigeria tomorrow,” he stated.

Also speaking, Dr. Mrs. Rose Obi, Proprietor of City Child Academy, Ekpan, encouraged children to remain focused on their education while urging parents to pay closer attention to their children’s behaviour and development.

The event featured educational activities, interactive sessions and recreational engagements involving children from regular schools, orphanage homes and special needs institutions, reinforcing the message of inclusion, equality and hope for every child.