The validation of draft training manual and guidelines for children with disabilities was held at a local hotel in Kotu on Thursday and was attended by both the NCCE staff and their development partners.
Alhagie Sering Modou Faye, the chairman of the National Centre for Civic Education (NCCE) said in response to this urgent need, the NCCE in partnership with the National Human Rights Commission, Gambia Federation of the Disable and supported by UNICEF under the UNPRPD project on advancing the rights of persons with disabilities in the Gambia developed a comprehensive training manual and guidelines to help children with disabilities across the country.
“This manual aims to equip educators, administrators, support staff, caregivers, and communities with the necessary tools and knowledge to build inclusive societies especially in the education sector,” he added.
Mr. Faye indicated that with lack of inclusive infrastructure, limited specialised teachers, negative societal attitudes, inadequate data, and limited access to assistive technology, many children with disabilities are denied the opportunity to go to school, face discrimination, and are unable to fully participate in the learning process.
According to him, those challenges highlight the urgent need for concerted efforts to create an inclusive education system in The Gambia. “By addressing these barriers, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities to reach their potential,” he stated.
Muhammed Krubally, the chairman of Gambia Federation of the Disable (GFD) acknowledged that the training manual and guidelines on the inclusion of children with disabilities is a crucial tool that will guide persons with disability across the country.
“This manual has been accurately developed through collaborative efforts, bringing together expertise from various stakeholders and disability organisations among others and it reflects our shared vision of an inclusive society where the right and dignity of every child are upheld,” he said.
He said the training manual and guidelines are designed to provide practical strategies and best practices for educators, caregivers, social workers, and all those involved in the care and development of children with disabilities. He added that it emphasises the importance of creating inclusive environments, promoting accessibility, and fostering positive attitudes towards disability.
Modou Sumareh, who deputised for the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Welfare said his Ministry plays a pivotal role in the inclusion of children with disabilities. “Our mandate is to develop and implement policies that protect the rights of children with disabilities and ensure their integration into all circles of society.
Mr. Sumareh mentioned that his Ministry is committed to working closely with all stakeholders to provide the necessary resources, training, and support to make inclusion a reality.
He further stated that their efforts include advocacy, capacity-building, and the creation of inclusive policies and programs that address the specific needs of children with disabilities and their families.
Armand Gnahore, UNICEF deputy representative to The Gambia said the initiative marks a significant milestone in their collective efforts to promote inclusive education in The Gambia.
He added that the 2021 Situational Analysis of the rights of Persons with Disabilities in The Gambia revealed a stark reality: inclusion, especially for children with disabilities, remains a significant challenge.
However, he said the training manual will equip stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to create a truly inclusive learning environment for all children.
