Union Bank of Nigeria, through its UnionCares initiative, has reiterated its commitment to inclusive education by sponsoring a mathematics competition for hearing-impaired students. The event, organised in collaboration with the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf, was held recently at Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired in Surulere, Lagos.

Held under the theme “Impacting Deaf Students and Life with Mathematics in Nigeria,” the competition drew ten students from various schools across Lagos, both within and outside the deaf community. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap in access to quality education by providing a platform for hearing-impaired students to showcase their academic excellence and problem-solving skills.

Representatives from Union Bank, the Lagos State Education Board, school principals, and teachers were present at the event, which also saw the distribution of branded items and prizes to all participants.

Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Union Bank, emphasized the Bank’s dedication to inclusion. “At Union Bank, we believe that development must be inclusive. That’s why, through our UnionCares initiative, we continue to invest in meaningful partnerships and platforms like this,” she said. “These students have demonstrated that their circumstances do not define them—they are mathematicians, thinkers, and problem-solvers whose wisdom reshapes the world.”

Francis Ajomiwe, Founder and Executive Director of the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf, expressed his appreciation to Union Bank. Speaking through an interpreter, he said, “I’m grateful to Union Bank for sponsoring this competition and helping bring our vision to life. We remain committed to improving the educational experience for the deaf community.”

Also speaking at the event, Bukunola Famakinwa of the Lagos State Education Authority highlighted the importance of supporting deaf learners. *“They face unique challenges in accessing quality education, and mathematics is no exception. But with the right approach and support, they can excel and participate fully in society.”* She urged greater collaboration to build a more inclusive educational system in Nigeria.

The top three winners—Samuel Megbodofo, Tomilola Shonubi, and Opeoluwa Saka—were awarded first, second, and third prizes, respectively, receiving branded gifts and accolades from Union Bank. Other participants, teachers, and attendees were also gifted branded items in appreciation of their involvement.

This initiative further affirms Union Bank’s long-standing reputation as a socially responsible institution and advocate for inclusive growth and development in Nigeria.