Whether the disability is physical or developmental, children with disabilities continue to face tremendous barriers when attempting to access their fundamental right to a basic and reasonable education. Their access to school is often limited by stigma, lack of understanding of their needs, inadequate teachers’ training, unconducive school environment, lack of classroom support, assistive technology and adaptive tools, and other learning resources.
Even though education is a fundamental right for all human beings, the barriers hindering those with disabilities are not given enough attention. Thousands of children with disabilities worldwide remain without the necessary education, mostly due to discrimination and assumption of their diminished capacity when it comes to their ability to learn, and study. Education of children with disabilities continues to be poor quality, unfairly setting low expectations and limiting children’ opportunities. Even in developed countries, very few young people with disabilities get the chance to proceed to higher education and training.
The importance of education for all children, including those with disabilities, is indisputable. Education can be considered as one of the best investments in the future for children with disabilities and one of the most important tools for empowering children with disabilities. Giving children with disabilities a strong start in life is vital for these children’s integration into society, growth and development into adulthood. More of them will be able to take part in the labour market and achieve their maximum level of sustainable independence as contributing, responsible and equal societal participants, to stand up for their rights and themselves.
Children with disabilities should have full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with other children. They must be given equal access to education as to any other child and their unique circumstances, should not be seen as obstacles to their educational success.