As part of our advocacy, #OneAccessibility, we will share information about differently able and profile one location with accessible trails. Look out every week for this enlightening post.
Hello everyone! I am absolutely looking forward to these next series of Accessibility Uncovered as it addresses two of my favourite topics – accessibility and education!
According to UNICEF, inclusive education means all children in the same classrooms, in the same schools. It means real learning opportunities for groups who have traditionally been excluded – not only children with disabilities, but speakers of minority languages too.
What does an inclusive school look like?
— Accessible features and equipment for various disability types.
— Clearly stated learner objectives, activities, and rules.
— Variety of instructional materials, techniques, and technologies being used.
— Specialised services by staff to meet the learner’s needs.
— Supportive and positive environment for learning and behavioural growth.
While Nigeria is gradually making stride in terms of accessibility on a global standard, I believe there is a growing adaptation of inclusivity in education management. Back in 2004, the National Policy on Education in Nigeria stated that “Special Education is created as a formal special educational training given to people (children and adults) with special needs” (Federal Government of Nigeria, 2004: p. 47). Although this differs from the UNESCO practices where inclusive education is seen as a reform that supports and welcomes diversity amongst all learner, there have been more foundations and institutions founded that align with the international practices since then.One of the institutions that are noteworthy on this topic is the Centre for Children with Special Needs (CCSN) located in Maitama, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. CCSN is a non-governmental organization that promotes inclusion and quality education while having a school-environment set up supporting children with special needs.
I particularly like CCSN, because they cater to each learner individually through their IEP (individual education plan) and focus on four key areas: education, physical therapy, social skills, and independent living.
Do you know of any inclusive schools in Nigeria or other countries in Africa? Share below!
If you have a question, suggestion, or contribution, feel free to comment below. You can read last week’s roundup article here and check the list of our other articles under "Accessibility Uncovered".