An inclusive education programme in Lebanon is getting top marks from teachers and students, especially children with disabilities who are often the most marginalised.
According to UNICEF , there are an estimated 300,000 children with disabilities in Lebanon today, although data is limited. To help them access learning opportunities, the UN agency and Lebanese authorities launched a pilot project in 2018 to create inclusive schools in 30 public institutions across all governorates.
Today, that number has grown to 117 inclusive schools nationwide.
Equal right to learning
All children need access to inclusive schools and inclusive environments, Amal El Jabali, an Education Officer with UNICEF Lebanon, told UN News.
"It is not about society including them - it is about society adapting its ways to ensure they are part of the community and have an equal right to be there."
Under the programme, children with disabilities can receive therapy and gain access to assistive devices at participating schools, creating a more level playing field.
