Union Bank Sparks Hope with Maths Contest for Deaf Students

In a brightly lit classroom at Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired in Surulere, Lagos, a quiet revolution unfolded — one powered not by noise or fanfare, but by numbers, passion, and the determination of ten extraordinary students.

The occasion was the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf Mathematics Competition, a first-of-its-kind event sponsored by Union Bank of Nigeria through its UnionCares initiative. The theme — “Impacting Deaf Students and Life with Mathematics in Nigeria” — captured the essence of the day: inclusion, empowerment, and visibility for a community often left on the margins of mainstream education.

For many of the students, the competition was more than a chance to solve equations. It was a moment to prove that their potential extended far beyond the limits often set by society. Drawing participants from both within and outside the Lagos deaf community, the event was a gathering of young minds ready to rewrite the narrative about what it means to live — and learn — with a hearing impairment.

Union Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, watched proudly as the students tackled challenging problems with quiet focus.

“At Union Bank, we believe that development must be inclusive. These students are not defined by their circumstances — they are thinkers and problem-solvers,” Aluko said. “Through UnionCares, we are building platforms that open up possibilities for all Nigerians, regardless of physical limitations.”

The Bank’s support made the vision of Francis Ajomiwe, founder of the Ajofa Foundation, come to life. Speaking through an interpreter, Ajomiwe shared how years of advocacy and organizing within the deaf community led to this moment.

“We’ve always believed that with the right tools and support, deaf students can thrive academically,” he said. “Union Bank’s support has helped bring our dreams to reality — dreams of inclusion, opportunity, and dignity.”

The event was also graced by representatives from the Lagos State Education Board, including Bukunola Famakinwa of the School Support Section. In her address, she underscored how access to quality education — especially in subjects like mathematics — can transform the lives of deaf learners.

“Mathematics empowers students to think critically, make informed decisions, and participate fully in society,” she said. “It is our duty to ensure deaf learners have the same opportunities as everyone else.”

After a rigorous round of problem-solving, three students emerged victorious:

• Samuel Megbodofo clinched first place,
• Tomilola Shonubi came second, and
• Opeoluwa Saka placed third.

Each received branded prizes from Union Bank — a gesture that was extended to all participants and teachers as a sign of appreciation and encouragement.

Beyond the awards and applause, what lingered was a quiet sense of triumph — not just for the winners, but for every student who dared to compete, every teacher who believed, and every institution that chose inclusion over indifference.

As the sun set over Surulere that day, it wasn’t just the students who walked away with something valuable. Everyone in attendance — from parents to public officials — left with a renewed understanding of what’s possible when opportunity meets potential.

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