The Role of Education Law in Supporting Special Needs Students in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

The role of education law in supporting special needs students in Nigerian tertiary institutions is pivotal to fostering an inclusive and equitable academic environment. Education law, comprising policies, regulations, and legal frameworks, is designed to protect the rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they have access to quality education without discrimination. In Nigerian tertiary institutions, the implementation of these laws has been inconsistent, leading to significant barriers for special needs students, such as inadequate accommodations, insufficient resources, and lack of institutional support. This paper examines the concept of education law, meaning of special needs, categorization of special needs and challenges faced by special needs students in Nigerian tertiary institutions, legal framework for special needs education in Nigeria, support systems mandated by education law for special needs students and gaps and barriers in education law enforcement. It was suggested that a system for continuous monitoring and evaluation of how institutions are supporting special needs students should be established. This system would help identify gaps in service delivery and ensure that legal requirements are being met.