“This programme is not just about infrastructure or resources; it is about transforming mindsets. It is about equipping teachers with the skills to provide inclusive education. It is about ensuring that school leaders, parents, and communities are engaged in creating learning environments that embrace diversity. It is about providing assistive devices that empower children to thrive, not just survive, in the classroom. We must, therefore, commit ourselves to building an education system where no child is left behind, where every child—regardless of ability—can learn in a safe, supportive, and enabling environment.” Moving words from the Link Community Development Board Chair Dr. Simeon Hau. Speaking at the official launch of the Realising Inclusive and Safe Education project (RISE).
RISE is a five-year £7.5 million inclusive education project funded by the Scottish Government. Between 2024 and 2029, the Realizing Inclusive and Safe Education project aims to remove barriers to quality education for children with disabilities and additional support needs in 4 education districts, reaching 108 schools, 1,996 teachers and leaders, 134,119 learners of which 4,527 have a disability and 10 resource centres.
350 participants attended the RISE launch including ministry of education staff, Scottish Government representatives, community leaders, teachers, parents and learners.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Patricia Nangozo Kayinga, MP, said: “The government is very committed to making sure that Children with Disabilities, both girls and boys, have access to quality education … [the project] aims to improve the quality and accessibility of learners with disabilities in Malawi by addressing barriers to inclusive and safe education.”
Messages throughout the day gave hope to persons and learners with disabilities that indeed “Disability is NOT Inability”.
Read more about the RISE Project