Govt urges parents to enrol children with disabilities in schools

DODOMA: TANZANIANS have been urged to stop hiding children with disabilities at home, as the government reinforces its commitment to providing quality and inclusive education for every child, regardless of ability.

The call was made recently by the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Adolf Mkenda, in Dodoma during the launch and distribution of learning materials and assistive devices for students and teachers with disabilities.

Prof Mkenda stressed that parents and guardians must ensure children with disabilities are registered and enrolled in schools that meet their individual learning needs.

“With these devices, a regular teacher can type a standard notice and, once printed, it is produced in braille. This enables schools to admit learners with visual impairments and allows teachers with disabilities to work in any school. That is the true meaning of inclusive education,” he said.

He noted that the equipment will significantly improve access to quality education by enabling learners with disabilities to read, write, communicate and actively participate in the learning process.

ALSO READ: City Council drags tax defaulters to court

The minister said the initiative aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to strengthen inclusive education and ensure that no child is left behind.

He added that the devices will help remove environmental and accessibility barriers while enhancing teaching and assessment methods.

“These tools will promote independence and self-reliance among learners, teachers and trainers with disabilities, ultimately improving academic performance,” he said.

Prof Mkenda described the initiative as a major milestone in implementing the President’s vision for inclusive development, urging parents to stop hiding children with disabilities and instead seek support through established government systems.

He further noted that learners with severe disabilities can access specialised support, including enrolment at Inclusive Model Schools in Patandi and Mtwara, with government-appointed assistants provided where necessary.

The minister also highlighted Tanzania’s growing regional recognition in inclusive education, citing a recent visit by South Africa’s Minister for Primary Education to Uhuru Mchanganyiko Primary School in Dar es Salaam.

“This demonstrates that Tanzania is setting a positive example for inclusive education in the region,” he said.