Ilorin: The Rose Hope Foundation has announced the establishment of a 50-bed boarding school specifically designed for children with autism aged between five and 17. This significant initiative was revealed by the foundation’s Executive Director, Mrs. Rose Afolabi, during a news conference held in Ilorin.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs. Afolabi explained that the initiative aims to address long-standing gaps in care, education, and empowerment for underserved communities. She emphasized the need for stronger national investment in supporting vulnerable groups, describing the new academy as a social intervention intended to enhance inclusion for individuals with special needs.
The foundation, which was established in April 2024, is built on a vision of restoring dignity and independence to persons with disabilities and the elderly through structured support systems. Mrs. Afolabi highlighted that the Rose Hope Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives through care, education, and advocacy, focusing on individuals with special needs and the elderly, who are often underserved in society.
The foundation offers a range of programs, including an autism-focused academy, elderly care services, free vocational training, and community-based research initiatives aimed at influencing better welfare policies. The long-term mission is to foster an inclusive society where disabilities are viewed as opportunities for growth and meaningful contribution.
Mrs. Afolabi also announced the rollout of a free vocational training scheme designed for persons with disabilities and other interested participants. This initiative will provide skills in areas such as tailoring, hairdressing, and barbing.
Highlighting the role of the Cadeau Spectrum Academy in autism intervention, she described it as a structured learning and therapy center for children on the autism spectrum. The academy offers personalized education, speech and language therapy, occupational and sensory integration support, behavioral therapy, and creative learning through arts and technology. The facility aims to provide a calm, supportive environment, including boarding services for the children.
In addition to autism care, Mrs. Afolabi stressed the importance of elderly care, advocating for dignity and compassion in the treatment of aging individuals. She emphasized that elderly care should not be limited to medical support but should also focus on restoring dignity, independence, and emotional well-being.
Dr. Abiola Adimula, a lecturer at the University of Ilorin, supported the initiative, affirming that the facility is specially designed to care for people with autism and enhance their learning and skills.