UNESCO | Education - Inclusive Education in Africa

Inclusive Education in Africa

Inclusive education aims to address the learning needs of all children, youth and adults, with a specific focus on those who are vulnerable to marginalisation and exclusion. In Africa, where poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, rural isolation and conflict are commonplace, the need for education systems that are inclusive, i.e. that cater for all learners, is particularly acute. However, providing it poses formidable challenges in a region where education in general suffers from insufficient and inadequate human, financial and material resources, and policies do not always recognize the importance of assuring that the needs for children with disabilities and children that of other reasons are marginalised are included in the National Plans for Education.

Inclusive education is an issue that cuts across all areas of education � early childhood, primary, special needs, vocational and adult education, teacher training and curriculum development. It also takes into account special needs related to culture and social development. It cannot be seen as a specific issue, but must be regarded as an approach to the development of the entire school system.