The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in collaboration with other stakeholders has commissioned a new Intermediate Special Education Classroom at Ogwedhi PAG Primary School in Awasi, Nyando Sub-County,Kisumu County.
The Deputy Country Director of KOICA Kenya, Hwayeong Bae, speaking during the event, said the intervention seeks to tackle persistent high school dropout rates among children with disabilities.
“Improving essential basic provisions would play a significant role in breaking the barriers, empowering children with disabilities, and creating more inclusive learning environments in schools.” He said
According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the dropout rate remain high, with 75 per cent of young learners with disabilities unable to attend school due to lack of mobility devices and other essential support services.
Data shows that in Nyando Sub-County, the scarcity of specialised facilities often forces children with disabilities to abandon their education after primary school.
Worryingly, only one in six children with disabilities is currently enrolled in school in the region.
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“This cycle has to be broken. We must ensure that every child, including those with special needs cases, has access to inclusive and quality education from early childhood to university,” Bae said.
She added, “Our goal is not only to provide a building but also to create opportunities. We want to empower children to participate fully in society and change public perceptions about disability.”
The project, consisting of the fully furnished Intermediate Special Classroom fully equipped with specialised desks, play materials, skill-building tools, and assistive technologies.
The unit, which also includes a teacher’s room and secure storage, currently serves 12 intermediate learners, providing them with a respectful and supportive learning environment.
Bae emphasised that education is the ultimate tool for self-advocacy, noting that, “In the classroom, students will learn their rights and discover their talents. When we support a child with a disability, we strengthen the entire community.”
The Kisumu County Chief Officer for Education, Bovince Ochieng, who represented the area Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, emphasised that the project reinforces the fundamental right to learning.
Ochieng observed that establishing a special needs classroom within a public school is a symbol of equality and dignity and would encourage all the learners to grow in unity.
“By opening this classroom, we are affirming that education is a basic right for every child, regardless of their physical or cognitive ability,” Ochieng stated.
By Our Reporter
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