Lagos State Government has marked the International Albinism Awareness Day with a public lecture themed: “Promoting the well-being of albino pupils and students in Lagos State”.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Mrs Adebunmi Adekanye, counselled that the protection of albinos’ skin from the sun is very important because they are more sensitive to sun exposure and have an increased risk of skin cancer.
In albinos, she said melanin, which protects the skin from UV (ultraviolet) ray, is in short supply and is responsible for the various in colour of the eyes, skin and hair.
To help albino pupils in the state care for their skin and reduce skin cancer risks, Mrs Adekanye said the government gave them free sun screen, bath soap and body lotion.
She however counselled them to wear sun glasses to mitigate the effect of the sun on their eyes.
Mrs Adekanye debunked myth that albinism is punishment for a crime or that albinos were deities.
Despite challenges of albinism, Adekanye said it does not limit success in life, adding there was no reason for inferiority. She charged them to be focused and challenge themselves to excel in any field of their choice.
She urged youths to stop harassing fellow albino pupils because of the difference in skin and hair colour but make friends with them.
In a paper titled: “Managing low vision with albinism”, Dr Edi Onyinye Prisca, advised albinos avoid exposing their eyes to the sun, manage their movement to avoid collision and sit at vantage to positions in class to enable them see properly.
Mrs Josephine Omolola in her lecture titled: “Total care for albino child” urged parents to show love and care for their albino children and expose them to education.
She said albinos were special gifts from God like others and called for society to support them to be the best.