By Andrew Darah
This seminar which was organized by the Permanent Secretary PPEB Delta Central, Dr. (Mrs.) Ejedimu Awoke for all Principals in PPEB Ughelli Zone, was a step down of the seminar organised by the Head of Service Dr. Mrs. Mininim Oseji on 13th August 2025 at HOS conference hall, Asaba for Permanent Secretaries.
The seminar took place at Ekakpamre Secondary School in Ughelli South Local Government Area on Tuesday 10th September 2025 and Government college Ughelli in Ughelli North Local Government Area on Wednesday 11th September 2025 respectively.
It featured two guest speakers, Dr. (Mrs.) Ejedimu Awoke and Dr. (Mrs.) Faith Amos. Dr.(Mrs) Faith Amos spoke on the topic “Autism” While Dr. (Mrs.) Ejedimu Awoke handled the topic “The role of school health in the management of children with special education needs”.
Dr. (Mrs.) Faith Amos said Autism also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior.
It is characterized by a range of symptoms and severity, hence the term “spectrum”. Autism is a complex condition, and understanding and support can greatly impact the lives of individuals with ASD and their families.
*Causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)* The causes of ASD are complex and multifaceted. Research suggests that ASD likely results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
*Genetic Factors*: Include heritability and genetic mutations.
*Environmental Factors*: Encompass prenatal and perinatal factors, as well as environmental exposures.
*Possible Solutions for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)*
ASD involves various strategies focusing on support, intervention, and accommodation.
Approaches often emphasize individualized care, tailoring support to meet the unique needs of individuals with ASD.
In conclusion, she said principals as head of schools has a lot to do in fostering inclusive environments for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Key Considerations should include
*Individualized Support*: Students with ASD have unique needs; tailor approaches accordingly.
*Inclusive Culture*: Promote understanding and acceptance among staff, students, and parents.
*Collaboration*: Work with teachers, therapists, families for cohesive support.
*Training for Staff*: Provide professional development on ASD awareness and strategies.
The second lecture by Dr. (Mrs.) Ejedimu Awoke was on “School Health Program in Schools.
The need to improve on the physical health of the school .
Schools should have a functional first aid box.
Set up clubs such as Red Cross,Girls guild,Man’O War,JET’ etc to help in making the school system more effective.
One of the sources of diseases in the school is public toilets.
These should be washed regularly with detergent and disinfectant.
Uniforms and nails of students should be inspected often.
Classrooms should be cleaned before start of teaching each day. Personal hygiene should be the watchword for every student.
In attendance at the seminar were, Dr. Mrs Ejedimu Awoke, Permanent Secretary PPEB Delta Central District ,Mrs Evelyn Vhriterhire, Director, PPEB Zonal office, Ughelli, Dr. Felix Onovughe, ANCOPSS Chairman Ughelli North LGA,Comrade Jonathan Jes Adiri ANCOPSS Chairman Ughelli South LGA and all Principals in Post Primary Education Board Ughelli Zone.
Giving the vote of thanks, Dr. Felix Onovughe (Ughelli North) and Dr.Mrs Nkechi Ugborugbo ( Ughelli South), on behalf of all the Principals in Ughelli Zone, thanked the Head of Service Dr. Mrs Mininim Oseji for introducing and organizing such powerful seminar for all Permanent Secretaries in Delta State.
Special appreciation was also extended to the Permanent Secretary PPEB Delta Central District ,Dr.Mrs Ejedimu Awoke who deemed it fit to pass the knowledge on to all principals in Ughelli Zone.
They appreciated the Zonal Director Mrs Evelyn Vhriterhire who anchored the event.
In her closing remarks, the Director PPEB Zonal office, Ughelli Mrs Evelyn Vhriterhire said the seminar was very impactful and insightful.
Principals having learnt so much are better equipped and are expected to step down this training to stakeholders in their various schools. She thanked the Head of Service for the innovative programs she has been rolling out. She also thanked the Permanent Secretary PPEB Delta Central Dr. (Mrs.) Ejedimu Awoke for her commitment to making schools in Delta Central District better.
