Giving voice to the differently-abled for education equity

In the pursuit of a just and equitable society, one of the paramount pillars is ensuring that every individual, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, has access to quality education. Yet, for the differently-abled community, this fundamental right often remains elusive. In a world where barriers persist, education equity emerges as a powerful tool to amplify their voices, dismantle prejudices, and foster inclusive environments.


Historically, society has constructed numerous barriers that impede the educational journey of differentlyabled individuals. Physical barriers, such as inaccessible infrastructure, and socio-cultural barriers, including stigmatisation and discrimination, have long hindered their access to education. Moreover, a lack of specialised resources and trained personnel further exacerbates the challenges they face. However, education equity seeks to dismantle these barriers by advocating for inclusive policies, accommodations, and support systems that cater to the diverse needs of every learner.


Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is a transformative force that empowers individuals to realise their full potential. For the differently-abled, education serves as a pathway to independence, self-advocacy, and societal inclusion. By receiving quality education tailored to their needs, they gain the skills, confidence, and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of life and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Moreover, education instills a sense of dignity and self-worth, challenging the prevalent narratives of pity and marginalisation.


Central to the concept of education equity is the creation of inclusive environments that embrace diversity and celebrate differences. Inclusive education goes beyond mere integration; it entails restructuring educational practices, curricula, and attitudes to accommodate the unique abilities of all learners. By fostering environments where differently-abled students are valued, respected, and supported, schools not only enhance academic outcomes but also cultivate empathy, compassion, and understanding among all students. Inclusive education benefits not only the individual but also society at large by nurturing a culture of acceptance and solidarity.


Realising education equity for the differently-abled requires concerted efforts at both the grassroots and policy levels. Advocacy plays a crucial role in raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and mobilising resources to address the systemic barriers they face. Furthermore, governments and educational institutions must enact and enforce policies that safeguard the rights of differently-abled individuals, ensuring equal access to education, reasonable accommodations, and specialised support services. By prioritising education equity in policy agendas, societies can create more inclusive and equitable educational landscapes.


Education equity is not a mere aspiration but a moral imperative, especially for the differently-abled community. By embracing inclusive practices, fostering supportive environments, and championing advocacy and policy reforms, we can empower them to thrive academically, socially, and professionally. Education equity is not just about giving them a seat at the table; it’s about amplifying their voices, affirming their rights, and recognising their inherent dignity and worth. As we strive towards building a more inclusive society, let us recognise education as the cornerstone of empowerment and the voice of the differently-abled.


Biography


Momodou is Youth Programme Officer for The Gambia Teachers’ Union (GTU)


BY MOMODOU BAKA DEM • June 17, 2024
By Ann Beatty April 6, 2025
This week while out and about in Hertfordshire and we visited the British Schools Museum. We discovered the first school opened by Joseph Lancaster, was known as the ‘Poor Childs Friend”, was in 1810. It was his lifelong mission that all children regardless of their circumstances, should benefit from an education. Apparently, Joseph heard a small girl say, “Oh that I could read!” and this inspired him to create a simple education system that eventually would benefit children across the world. Joseph was the tenth son of a poor man himself from South London. His aim was to offer free education for everyone. However, it would be 93 years before the U.K. government finally made education free for all. There are still many countries today where education is still not free to access and it is certainly not compulsory for primary and secondary age pupils. Joseph’s mission really resonates with that of the Foundation, to support access to education for all. We enjoyed our visit and appreciated the tour given by two of the Museum’s volunteers, Angela and Clare. They described some of the challenges faced in the early years of formal education and shared some of the rules that teachers and students had to abide by with us. 
By Ann Beatty April 4, 2025
Sparks Bristol is a collaborative community project initially envisioned by The Global Goals Centre, (GGC) more of which below. A few years ago, GGC took over an empty Marks and Spencer store and that’s how Sparks was born. Sparks is a department store with a difference, co-created by Global Goals Centre and Artspace Lifespace. On the ground floor is a huge range of shops, installations, events and more. Upstairs is a hub for local artists, it offers affordable studios as well as rehearsal and performance space. The Global Goals Centre is a Bristol-based educational charity inspired by the Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs). GGC believe the SDG’s or Global Goals as they are sometimes known, can be reached, with imaginative solutions and widespread education and engagement. They work with partners to promote creative solutions and deliver ground breaking projects that work towards these ambitious goals. The Steve Sinnott Foundation supported the Global Goals Centre with seed funding when it first started over 5 years ago. This month we went to visit them to see how they are getting on and we were taken aback by the volume of work they have achieved since they started. It is amazing to see how though working together with other local community groups it has grown into the vibrant centre it is today. All of the creative projects they host are linked to the SDGs. They cover topics that tackle poverty, education, climate change, fashion recycling and upcycling, to name a few.
By Ann Beatty March 28, 2025
Spring is definitely here, daffodils, blossom and crocuses are all basking in the bright sunshine. There is still a chill in the air in the shade but it's happening and all the seeds that were sown over the last few months are coming to fruition. At the Foundation, we have been planning the year ahead and our Positive Periods and Prevention of Gender Based Violence programmes got underway this weekend in Haiti and Ghana. These projects will have a long-lasting effect on the lives of the women and girls who take part: tackling the root causes of gender-based violence and enabling girls to attend school every day when they have their period, to feel safe at school and know how to take action when they are faced with violence. These are the first of many projects planned for the year ahead as we continue to work towards Education for All children everywhere.