By Francis Chipalo
GOVERNMENT has observed that financial implications have been hindering efforts towards achieving quality inclusive education for all in the country.
Speaking at the 7th National Symposium on Inclusive Education in Zambia, Minister of Education permanent secretary Joe Kamoko says a sustainable and supportive budget is paramount for implementing inclusive education policies and practices in Zambia.
Kamoko says despite making strides, such as the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2012, gaps remain in the implemention of policies and allocation of resources, including human resources, necessary to support inclusive education effectively.
He says it is crucial that education funds are directed to address the gaps in accessibility, provide necessary assistive technologies and promote a learning environment that fosters transformative, innovation and inclusive.
Speaking at the same event, Disability Rights Watch (DRW) director Wamundila Waliuya says improved governance systems are key in ensuring that all learners receive quality education.
Waliuya says education systems that will make learners with disabilities feel part of the education system are needed.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Association of Disabled (NAD) country director Caroline Cheelo noted the need to address challenges impeding effective inclusive education delivery, among them lack of learning and teaching materials, inadequate of teachers for learners with disabilities as well as lack of adequate infrastructure.
National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQEZ) executive director Aaron Chansa says the current curriculum is not flexible, saying the curriculum must be disability – inclusive.
Dr. Chansa further states that Zambia will not have desired sustainable development in the absence of quality education.
The educationalist has since proposed that a Directorate for Inclusive Education is put in place and further called for more advocacy for the realization of inclusive education in Zambia.
Members from the disability movement are currently gathered at the two – days national symposium in Lusaka discussing Inclusive Education in Zambia themed “Quality Inclusive Education for All- NOW”.
