EKSG Special Education & Social Inclusion

Group photograph of the SESI team, representatives from the Ministry of Youths and the team members of Stanforte Edge Ltd following a brief meeting held on June 24, 2024, at the SESI office.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss potential areas of collaboration between Stanforte Edge Ltd and the state government in advancing the social inclusion initiatives of Governor BAO's administration.

Ekiti Champions Tech Innovation for Young Girls: Government Leads Charge in Digital Empowerment
.. participants commend government on technology drive.

Young school girls converged at the Governor's Office on Monday 10th of June for the Ekiti State Technovation Girls celebration, lauding the event as a pivotal moment in their technological journey.

The event which was held at the Conference Hall of the Governor's office opened with a speech by Mrs. Yetunde Olasoji, the team lead of Technovation Girls Nigeria, Southwest chapter, who emphasized the transformative potential of technology for young women. "If something does not change, you will have to change something," she quoted, praising the government's efforts and encouraging the girls to become proactive problem-solvers in their communities.

In her keynote address, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola stressed the state’s unwavering commitment to leveraging technology to uplift young women and girls. Speaking to an enthusiastic audience, she highlighted the administration’s strides in making technology both accessible and transformative for Ekiti’s female youth.

Describing the event as a joyful occasion, Princess Adetoun emphasized the significance of bringing together bright young minds to explore the vast world of technology. She praised the Technovation Girls initiative for empowering participants to transform from mere consumers to creators of innovative ideas. "You are the future of technology, and as far as Ekiti is concerned, we're banking on you to take it to a higher place," she declared.

Mrs. Agboola went further to share the success story of a former participant of Technovation Girls program, who had significantly benefited from the initiative. She mentioned that the young girl had gained a lot from the program and learned immensely during the app creation process, highlighting how technology has simplified life and expanded opportunities, such as making banking transactions convenient from home.

While encouraging perseverance and the willingness to take risks, Agboola advised the girls to view every challenge as a growth opportunity. She warned against the allure of cybercrime and advocated instead for the ethical use of technology to benefit society. "Perseverance is learning to bring your own ideas to life," she noted, adding that the state government is committed to initiatives that enable women and girls to thrive in the tech world.

Mrs. Agboola also spoke on the government’s efforts to create a supportive environment for women in technology. She highlighted how the administration has provided platforms for women to participate actively in governance and innovation. "The world of technology is vast and ever-changing," she remarked, urging the girls to stay curious and open to new ideas.

Concluding the event, the Tutor General for Ekiti South, Mr. Femi Ogungbamigbe urged the girls to fully embrace every opportunity in digital technology. "Technology can make you an inventor, a creator, and it can make you bold," he said, expressing gratitude to the Technovation team for their role in bringing these opportunities to Ekiti State.

The celebration showcased the Ekiti State Government's dedication to integrating technology into the education and empowerment of young girls. Participants which include girls from various secondary schools in the state, expressed their appreciation to the government and Technovation Girls Nigeria initiative, marking the event as a transformative step forward in their educational journey and positioning Ekiti as a beacon of progress in Nigeria’s technological landscape.

Hon. Adetoun Agboola welcomes the Spouses of the 7th EKHA Members at the State Relief and Rehabilitation Center.

On the 3rd of June, 2024, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Hon. Adetoun Agboola received the Spouses of the 7th EKHA Members at the State Relief and Rehabilitation Center.

In her opening remarks, Hon. Agboola expressed her gratitude to the EKHA members' spouses for their visit to the Home. She commended them for emulating the Governor's compassionate approach towards People with Disabilities, Behavioural challenges, Psychosis and Mental health challenges in Ekiti State.

Hon. Agboola also acknowledged the Governor's kind gestures and empathetic approach towards the residents of the Rehabilitation home since his assumption in office. She mentioned the recent purchase of 3.6 hectares of land for the construction of a multi purpose home for children and adults with profound conditions, aimed at promoting their early independence and recovery.

Additionally, Dr. Ajibola, a mental health professional from the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, was invited to the event. He provided valuable advice to the residents on improving their mental health and also emphasized the importance of prioritizing psychological needs, self-care, and cultivating love and self-esteem.

Dr. Ajibola stressed the significance of being aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to prevent mental health challenges. He encouraged the residents to focus on personal joy, which is determined by one's relationship with oneself and God, rather than depending on external factors.

The EKHA spouses donated essential items like foodstuffs, mattresses and office tables for the home.

Also in attendance were: Alhaji Fattah, SSA Social Inclusion; Mrs. Fatoba, SSA Rehabilitation and Mental Health; Pastor Akin Abimbola, SSA Governor's Office; Mr. Akin Obanise, SA Disability Affairs; Mrs. Bisi Coker, SA Social Inclusion.

Get familiar with Princess Adetoun Agboola the Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 🗣️

All public buildings have until the end of 2025 to comply with the Disability Law which mandates accessibility for people with mobility challenges.

Princess Adetoun Agboola declares open a Two-Day Training Workshop on Community Mobilization against GBV.

The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, yesterday declared open a two-day training workshop organized by Disability Not A Barrier Initiative (DINABI) for Women and Girls with Disabilities on Community Mobilization against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

The workshop, which aims to empower participants to become trainers and advocates against GBV, was commended by Princess Adetoun. She emphasized the importance of inclusive and collective efforts to combat GBV, stating that people have lost their lives, bodies have been damaged and many have suffered irreparable harm due to GBV.

She noted that the Office of the First Lady and the Ministry of Women Affairs have initiated the advocacy campaign and would continue to collaborate in raising awareness against Gender-Based Violence.

Princess Adetoun Agboola further encouraged the participants, most especially the teachers and students of the Special Schools to develop a program to educate their peers and colleagues on GBV inorder to promote a culture of awareness and support.

Students of Government Special Schools in Ekiti State Shine at International Children's Day Celebration

The children of the Government Special Schools in Ikoro, Ido, and Ikere Ekiti made a remarkable impression yesterday at the 2024 International Children's Day celebration held at the Oluyemi Kayode's Stadium, Ado Ekiti, with Government Special School, Ikoro Ekiti taking home the third position in the March Past presentation.

The event which was attended by Her Excellency, the Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji; Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Peju Babafemi; Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Hon. Adetoun Agboola; and other top government dignitaries, showcased the talents and abilities of children across the state, including children with special needs.

Students of the Government Special Schools stole the show with their impressive skills and creativity in their March Past and dance presentations. Their performance was met with applause and admiration from Her Excellency and the general audience. The Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Hon. Adetoun Agboola who expressed delight to be a part of the event, stressed that the administration of Gov. Biodun Oyebanji will continue to promote inclusive education and equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their abilities.

One of the highlights of the event was the performance of JBoy, a student from the Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere Ekiti, who sang one of his newly released songs to the admiration of all. JBoy's talent and confidence on stage were inspiring and his performance was a testament to the potentials and abilities of children with special needs.

The event was a resounding success, with exciting performances and activities that truly promoted inclusivity amidst funfair.

At the 2024 Children's Day event today, we were thrilled to have one of the students from the School for the Blind, Junior Benjamin (JBoi), sing one of his newly released songs to our hearing.

Indeed, there is ability in disability.

Here is JBoy with Governor BAO, our inclusive and hardworking Governor at the Kidscon Event in September 2023; and also Jboy performing live at the 2024 Children's Day event at Oluyemi Kayode's Stadium, Ado Ekiti.

Sit back and enjoy JBoy's rhythm below:

Hon. Agboola attends sensitization workshop, calls for accessibility regulation for PWDs.

The Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Hon. Adetoun Agboola recently attended a 2-Day Sensitization Workshop on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Accessibility Regulations in Abuja.

The workshop which was aimed to shed light on the importance of accessibility and to create awareness among stakeholders, was organized by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) Programme. The seminars also fostered dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration to address existing barriers and promote accessibility among PWDs in Nigeria.

At the event, Hon. Adetoun Agboola commended the NCPWD and ROLAC for their proactiveness and for putting the event together. While delivering her goodwill message, she emphasized the need for accessibility and equity for Persons with Disabilities in Education, Health, Communication, Workplace, Transportation and Physical Buildings/Public facilities to enable them to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the society.

According to her, the Government of Ekiti State under the disability friendly and inclusive Governor, His Excellency, Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) prioritizes accessibility for People with Disabilities in the State.
She went further to highlight some of the accessibility initiatives in Ekiti State. They include:

▪️Availability of a Disability Law
▪️Ekiti Kete Online Sign Language lessons for Civil Servants and political office holders
▪️ Enforcement of construction of ramps in all new public buildings(Old buildings are also retrofitting)
▪️Implementation of the 5% employment law, which ensures that as long as the People with Disabilities are qualified for the roles, they are given equal opportunities for employment.
▪️Provision of examination access arrangements during Civil Service recruitment Exams, which includes providing extra time, separate invigilation room and other necessary accommodations to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates.
▪️ Provision of free medical access to all persons with disabilities in collaboration with the Ministry of Health
▪️Introduction of digital facilities such as laptops, desktops, and interactive wowbii boards, to enhance learning and accessibility.
▪️Employment of vocational teachers in ICT, Music, PHE and Fine Arts.
▪️Employment of speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists in the Government Special Schools across the state. (These are public schools)
▪️Employment of support staff(nurses, cooks, environmental sanitation staff, security and others) in the special schools
▪️ Designing and implementation of a curriculum that addresses the needs of the children/persons in the Special Class across the schools
▪️ Establishment of a full multi-sensory adapted classroom and therapy room in each of the schools
▪️ Provision of a fully equipped vocational centres for sewing, hairdressing, soap making, etc) in each of the special schools
▪️Ongoing FREE training for adults with disabilities at the Skills Acquisition Centre for Persons with Disabilities
▪️Provision of buses to convey the secondary school students of the special schools to their inclusive schools daily
▪️ Construction of new classrooms and hostels to enhance the students' quality of life
▪️Provision of scholarships to indigent People with Disabilities
▪️Pre-admission evaluation of all children before enrolment into the Special Schools
▪️ Acquisition of 3.5 hectares of land to provide institutionalised home services for people with severe disabilities and people with BESD with full sporting complex and recreational centre for People with Disabilities, among others.

The Special Adviser reiterated that Ekiti State remains a key player in providing advocacy and support for People with Disabilities while assuring that the State would stay loyal and committed to the visions and missions of the NCPWD.

With a focus on ensuring total Inclusion, the workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to interact, exchange ideas and chart a way forward in enhancing the welfare of the PWD community.

APPRECIATION

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji wishes to convey his profound appreciation to distinguished leaders, citizens of the state and well wishers across the county for the avalanche of goodwill messages and congratulatory advertorials that greeted his award as Governor of the Year 2023( Community Development) by the Independent Newspaper in Lagos on Sunday.

Specifically, the Governor notes with profound gratitude goodwill messages by all former Governors of the state, H.E. Otunba Niyi Adebayo; H.E. Dr Kayode Fayemi; H.E. Dr Ayodele Fayose; and H.E. Engr Segun Oni; as well as our reverred elder statesman, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) who personally wrote a congratulatory letter in addition to a newspaper advert celebrating the Governor.

Governor Oyebanji also appreciates Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers; members of the Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly; the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly; Members of the State Executive Council; Her Excellency, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Ekiti State chapter, Body of Permanent Secretaries; labour union leaders, civil servants, youth organizations, political associates and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), family and friends for their incredible support and for making out time to celebrate him.

The Governor says the award, as well as the way it was celebrated by Ekitikete home and abroad, has further challenged him to work harder in the delivery of good governance to the people of Ekiti State in line with the shared prosperity agenda of the administration.

While admitting that he could do little without the support and involvement of the people, Governor Oyebanji urges the citizens to continue to support and take ownership of the development efforts, projects and successes of the Biodun Abayomi Administration, so that their vision for the state can be fully realized.

“ On behalf of myself and my family, I say a very big thank you to all our leaders and the entire citizens for the massive show of love and solidarity. Alale Ekiti a gbe a o. Amin”.

Signed
Yinka Oyebode
Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State
06-05-2024

UTME: Ekiti govt hails JAMB’s provisions for physically challenged people.

The Ekiti State government has commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its policy of giving access to physically challenged students for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

The Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, explained that the creation of the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) has in no small way afforded disadvantaged candidates access to higher institutions to pursue their careers.

Agboola spoke at the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, centre for the visually impaired and others participating in the 2024 UTME examination under the supervision of the JEOG.

She added that the state government was particularly impressed with the leadership of JAMB for the initiative, saying it was in tandem with the policies of the present administration in the state to give equal opportunities to citizens regardless of their physical challenges.

According to her, the state government would continue its collaboration with the foremost examination body in a bid to ensure the international standard of giving people with disabilities access to basic needs of life, including the right to education.

The governor’s aide said, “Education is not just a critical tool for personal growth, development, and empowerment, but also a powerful instrument for breaking down barriers and overcoming stigmas, especially for persons with disabilities. It equips them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to pursue their goals and contribute meaningfully to society. The JAMB UTME Examination is a crucial step in this journey of empowerment.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to JAMB for its tireless efforts in promoting inclusivity and diversity. Your attention to the needs of candidates with disabilities is truly commendable. Let us continue working together towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone can thrive and realise their dreams.

Speaking, the South West coordinator of JEOG, Professor Rashid Aderinoye, said the registrar of JAMB, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, was committed to ensuring that every eligible student in the country is provided the platform to acquire a higher education regardless of physical challenges.

He disclosed that no fewer than 33 candidates were drawn from neighbouring states, including Ekiti, adding that all logistics have been provided by the examination body.

Aderinoye explained that since the creation of the group a few years ago, more people with disabilities are gaining admission to higher institutions to attain their potential without any hindrances.

The professor of literacy and open distance learning said, “At the inception of the office of the JAMB registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, established the group to ensure inclusive tertiary education and to have more access for those that are disabled in any form.

“It is just about giving equal opportunity to every candidate in Nigeria, and for JAMB to do this, it is commendable. The candidates are given free accommodation, feeding, and transportation during the period of the examination.

“We have 33 candidates here in the Ado-Ekiti centre for this year’s UTME from Ondo and other neighbouring states and Ekiti. We have 11 centres across the country.

“All materials, including braille, were provided for them by JAMB, and for those who have five credits in O’Levels, they will be given the money back; the registration fee is practically free for them.”

“It has increased the numbers of special students gaining admission to university; that is the major advantage of the group. It is giving hope to the disabled that they can access university education in Nigeria.”

EKSG reiterates commitment to PWDs' welfare.

The Ekiti state government has reiterated the commitment of the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji to the welfare of persons living with disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti.

Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, who gave the assurance in Ado Ekiti, urged interested individuals and corporate organizations not to fan the members of hatred and strife but support the efforts of the State Government to make life more meaningful for all stakeholders in the State particularly the PWDs.

Olatunbosun recalled that in January, this year, the State Government launched a free healthcare programme that allows people with disabilities access to healthcare services at no cost in the State.

He said that the healthcare programme organized by the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health was designed to enable all people living with disabilities in the State to enjoy free healthcare services in all government-owned primary, secondary and tertiary health facilities across the State.

Stressing the efforts of the State Government to sensitize and inform all concerned of the the programme, Olatunbosun said that the programme was highly advertised.

According to him, People living with disabilities in the State were to register with the Ministry of Health with their National Identification Number (NIN) and one passport photograph each to benefit from the programme.

Olatunbosun also noted that apart from the existence of the three Government Special Schools specifically established to cater for the education of PWDs, education is free, compulsory and qualitative from primary to Senior Secondary School in the State.

He said while it is true that Government takes particular interest in the special schools due to their peculiar features and functions in handling the interest of people living with disabilities, the present administration is not neglecting any school in the State.

The Commissioner stressed that “203 public schools in Ekiti State are currently benefiting from the $25 million School Improvement Grant(SIG) released by the World Bank to uplift the standard of education in the state.

“The fund is being used to construct new buildings, renovate old ones, erect perimeter fences and purchase equipment to the benefit of all students in the schools including those living with disabilities.

“There is the Innovation Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills Project which is also back by the World Bank to enhance the capacity of the skills development system in order to produce relevant skills for the formal and informal sectors without leaving out PWDs.

“In fact, there is no public school in the State that has not been substantially touched by Government’s developmental efforts without bias to the enrollment of PWDs.

“Government also paid N546.9million WAEC/SSCE fees for 16,269 SS3 students in public schools for this year making all SS3 students in public schools beneficiaries including those living with disabilities”.

FUNDAMENTAL ETHICS AND PROFICIENCY TRAINING FOR THE SUPPORT STAFF OF SPECIAL SCHOOLS IN EKITI STATE

Ekiti State Empowers 74 New Support Staff with Special Needs Training

In a bid to enhance inclusivity and support for children with special needs, Ekiti State Government has launched a two- day comprehensive fundamental ethics and proficiency training and workshop for 74 support staff that were recently recruited.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s deep concern for children with special abilities has spurred significant investments in the sector. Recognizing the unique requirements of these individuals, the state is committed to providing the necessary materials and infrastructure to ensure their well-being and create conducive learning environments for both students and educators.

Gathered at the School for the Blind in Ikere Ekiti, participants from the state’s three government special schools embarked on an intensive two-day seminar to equip them for their roles.

Dr.Kofoworola Aderiye, the Commissioner for Education, lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s multifaceted initiatives aimed at supporting children with special needs.

She urged the new recruits to reciprocate the government’s commitment by delivering high-quality service, emphasizing the importance of punctuality, dedication, and innovation in their duties.

Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, reiterated Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to inclusivity in governance. She assured the recruits of a rigorous selection process based on merit and proximity to each special school, minimizing logistical challenges and ensuring seamless learning experiences for the children.

Highlighting ongoing projects such as school renovations and vehicle refurbishments to enhance mobility, Mrs. Agboola emphasized the significance of the support staff’s role in the state’s inclusive agenda.

Distinguished guests, including Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, and Dr. Azeez, Special Adviser on Tertiary Education, encouraged the recruits to uphold the government’s commitment through diligence and productivity.

The seminar was declared opened by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye followed by an onsite assessment of the school’s AGILE classroom block project emphasizing government’s proactive approach to educational infrastructure.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele pay Inspection Visit to the ongoing road projects in Ijero Ekiti, Pledge Support for more developmental initiatives in Ijero.

On the 26th of March, 2024, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, together with Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Majority Leader and the Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, paid an inspection visit to the ongoing road projects in Ijero Ekiti.

The warm reception by Kabiyesi, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, Ajero of Ijero Kingdom, and the town's people reflected their enthusiasm and total support for Gov. Biodun Oyebanji's administration.

During his address, Gov. Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the people of Ijero Ekiti for their support and trust in his administration. He assured them that their votes had not been in vain, and that he remains committed to their welfare. He went further to emphasize the collaborative effort between his administration and Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele in uplifting the community.

Responding to the town's pressing needs, Governor Biodun Oyebanji emphasized the readiness of Senator Opeyemi Bamidele to collaborate with the state government to fulfill some of the significant promises made at the venue, to enhance the community's infrastructure and welfare services. Chief among these promises is the establishment of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in Ijero Ekiti. This vital addition to the town's healthcare system will undoubtedly improve the quality and accessibility of critical care services for the residents.

Additionally, Senator Bamidele pledged to construct a mini stadium in Ipoti Ekiti in Ijero Local Government which would serve as a hub for various sporting activities, fostering community unity and enabling local talent to flourish.

Furthermore, in recognition of the importance of healthcare education, Governor Oyebanji said he's presently reviewing the proposal to upgrade the College of Health Sciences and Technology to a Polytechnic. He also emphasized his dedication to facilitate the procurement of an ambulance for the College of Health Sciences and Technology in Ìjerò Ekiti, in collaboration with Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele. According to His Excellency, this essential resource will enhance emergency medical services within the town and enable medical students to gain real-world experiences invaluable to their training.

Gov. Oyebanji reiterated his determination to prioritize the needs of Ijero Ekiti, emphasizing his commitment to the town's overall development and well-being, in partnership with Senator Bamidele.

Present at the event were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education & Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola; the Chairman of Ijero LG, Hon. Folowosele Abayomi; Vice Chairman, Hon. Bosede Jallo; Senior Legislative Assistant to MOB and coordinator of the road projects, Mr. Dipo Ilesanmi; APC Chairman IJLG, Hon. Awe; Ward Councillors, Chiefs and other top Local Government functionaries.

On the 22nd of March, 2024, the entire staff of the Office of Disability Affairs and the office of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion gathered together with the Principals of the Special Schools in Ekiti State to honour the esteemed Executive Secretary of the Office of Disability Affairs on her well-deserved retirement.

Amidst a joyous atmosphere filled with appreciation and gratitude, colleagues, friends and distinguished guests gathered to acknowledge the remarkable contributions and commitment of Mrs. Olabisi Funmilayo Fatoba, the retiring Executive Secretary.

The event which was graced by the presence of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, alongside other prominent guests was held at the Skills Acquisition Centre for People with Disabilities, Ilokun, Ado Ekiti.

During the event, heartwarming goodwill messages were delivered by dignitaries, highlighting the skills, capacity, compassion and dedication of Mrs. Fatoba during her active years in service.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Hon. Adetoun Agboola expressed her deep admiration and gratitude to the retiring Executive Secretary. She acknowledged the immense positive influence she has had in the various programs of the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion which had assisted the office to achieve great feats.

Mrs. Funmilayo Fatoba who could not hide her joy, expressed profound appreciation to God for a successful thirty five years in the civil Service, she recounted the support and collaboration received from the Office of Special Education and Social Inclusion, her colleagues and the entire PWD community.

As the event concluded, a sense of accomplishment and gratitude filled the atmosphere with everyone expressing their heartfelt wishes to the retiring Executive Secretary for a rewarding retirement.