NAIROBI: The Ministry of Education in partnership with the British Council has initiated a significant dialogue on inclusive education, emphasizing the need for high-quality educational environments that accommodate all students, particularly those with special needs.
According to Kenya News Agency, the policy dialogue titled Leading Inclusion and Belonging in Schools spanned three days and addressed several critical areas such as inclusive education for students with special educational needs and disabilities, advancing gender equality, and overcoming language barriers in classrooms. Dr. Belio Kipsang, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Education, highlighted the state’s commitment by allocating 25 percent of its educational resources to support schools catering to children with special needs.
During his speech at the event, Dr. Kipsang revealed that secondary schools receive a top-up capitation of Sh 37,000 for each learner with special needs, whereas primary schools are provided Sh 2,300 along with g
rants to support staff working in these educational settings. He acknowledged the global presence of approximately 240 million children with disabilities who strive for quality education to fulfill their potential amidst challenges like discrimination and lack of tailored services in schools.
Dr. Kipsang emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment in educational institutions to improve students’ sense of belonging, which in turn enhances academic outcomes and mental health. He proudly noted the strides made towards inclusive education in the country, with a 100 percent enrollment rate of children in primary and secondary schools, including those with disabilities and from Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) areas.
The Principal Secretary also pointed out the implementation of policies such as Free Primary Education and Free Day Secondary Education, which ensure educational access to all children. He cited Kenya’s adherence to international frameworks like the Convention on the Rights of the Chi
ld and the Sustainable Development Goals as evidence of the country’s dedication to educational inclusivity.
Despite the progress, Dr. Kipsang admitted the ongoing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, low retention rates in marginalized areas, shortages of trained teachers, and societal stigma. He called for collaborative efforts to address these issues while praising the British Council for its role in facilitating the educational dialogue and implementing related programs.
Tom Porter, the Country Director of British Council Kenya, echoed the sentiment of collaboration and highlighted the Council’s initiatives that support education through arts, culture, language, and creativity. He announced future plans to focus on assessing learners and workers to prepare them for new opportunities, aiming to foster inclusion and contribute positively to global peace and prosperity.