association of refugees with disability

Enhancing Access to Education for Refugees with Disabilities: Findings from Nakivale and Rwamwanja Settlements

Summary of Accessibility Audit Report

The Association of Refugees with Disabilities (ARD) conducted an accessibility audit in Nakivale and Rwamwanja refugee settlements in early 2024. The audit aimed to assess and enhance the accessibility of educational institutions for learners with disabilities, aligning with the principle of “Leave No One Behind” from the Sustainable Development Agenda.

Audit Overview

The audit focused on evaluating the accessibility of entrances, doors, ramps, stairs, windows, notice boards, and pathways/corridors in ten schools across the two settlements. The audit was conducted under the framework of various national and international policies, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Persons with Disabilities Act 2020.

Findings

In Nakivale, schools like Bright International Nursery and Primary School and Nakivale Secondary School were found to have significant barriers such as non-wheelchair accessible entrances, narrow doorways, and inadequate toilet facilities. Similarly, in Rwamwanja, schools such as Nkoma Church of Uganda Primary School and Rwamwanja Secondary School faced issues like steep stairs without handrails, poorly placed notice boards, and uneven playgrounds.

Recommendations

To address these accessibility challenges, ARD recommends constructing ramps with appropriate slopes, widening doorways, and ensuring level pathways. Additionally, upgrading sanitation facilities, enhancing signage, and providing ongoing training for school staff on disability inclusion and best practices are crucial steps.

Acknowledgements

ARD extends its gratitude to ARD Excetive Director, Muombamungu James, David Nangosi, NUDIPU in particular, school leadership, community members, and team members like Ssekandi James and Shema Bienvenu for their contributions. The cooperation from the leadership of the audited schools has been invaluable.

Contact Information

For more information, please contact ARD at:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Social media: ardofganda
  • Website: www.ardofuganda.org
  • Phone: +256200909832 / +256781503951
  • Address: Najjanankumbi, Masanyalaze Zone, Entebbe Road, Kampala, near Train Up the Child School, P.O. Box 108994, Kampala, Uganda

    Please read the whole comprehensive report from below document :


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