Kilimanjaro applauds Govt’s commitment to promote inclusive education

KILIMANJARO: RESIDENTS of Kilimanjaro region have commended the government for its efforts to promote inclusive education that provide equal learning opportunities to all students including those with disabilities.

They were commenting on the ongoing initiative to promote inclusive education, providing wheelchairs and essential school supplies to children with disabilities and ensuring they have the tools to succeed in their education.

The initiative is implemented under the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Policy, Parliament and Coordination, Ms Ummy Nderiananga in the Moshi District Council, Kilimanjaro Region.

Deputy Minister Nderiananga said that President Samia Suluhu Hassan was committed to ensuring that all children regardless of their physical abilities receive quality education.

“President Samia has provided these wheelchairs to ensure children with disabilities attend school. Also, we are providing exercise books, bags and pens so that as schools re-open, these children are fully prepared to begin their studies,” she said.

She commended Moshi District Council for its efforts in supporting people with disabilities, urging other councils to learn from their example in fostering inclusive services and care for persons with disabilities.

Addressing parents and guardians, she emphasised the potential of children with disabilities and encouraged them not to lose hope.

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She said: “these children are capable of achieving great things. President Samia has allocated funds to procure learning and teaching materials for students with disabilities from primary schools to universities.

Last month, I distributed specialised learning materials to universities. The President has ensured funds are available to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. Through the Ministry of Education, students can now request specific tools they need to succeed in their studies. 19 universities, including those in Zanzibar, have benefited from this initiative.”

The Deputy Minister urged the community to stop hiding children with disabilities, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the education sector and ensure equal opportunities for all children.

Earlier, Special Needs Education Officer in Moshi District, Mr Innocent Kahoko  presented a report showing challenges faced by schools, including inadequate and dilapidated infrastructure for students with intellectual disabilities.

He also noted that three employees with disabilities in the district require specialised equipment to enhance their job performance.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology recently unveiled the official academic calendar for early childhood, primary and secondary schools for the 2025 academic year.

The announcement issued through Education Circular No 03 of 2024, replaces an earlier version and incorporates significant adjustments to ensure efficient academic scheduling while aligning with national priorities including the 2025 general elections.

The Commissioner for Education in the Ministry of Education Science and Technology, Dr Lyabwene Mtahabwa, emphasised the importance of adhering to the calendar to maintain the quality of education and ensure students have a balanced academic year.

“The revised calendar ensures that teaching and learning activities are completed on time, avoiding the need for rushed plans that could deprive students of valuable rest and participation in family and community activities,” he said.

The academic year will commence on January 13 this year and consist of two terms. The first term will run from January 13 to July 8, with a midterm break from April 11 to 22 this year.

Recognising the significance of 2025 as an election year, the Ministry has incorporated adjustments to mitigate disruptions and ensure continuity.

“We have made these revisions intending to maintain a steady learning environment for students while accommodating the national election schedule,” said Dr Mtahabwa.