The School of Education and Leadership has recently hosted an International Conference on Disability in Education, with a focus on Sustaining an Inclusive Africa. The Conference brought together key stakeholders, experts and educators to discuss and promote inclusive education policies in Africa.
Provost of the College of Education, Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe addressing participants at the Conference
Addressing participants, the Provost of the College of Education, Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, commended the organisers of the Conference. He emphasised the importance of ensuring inclusive and equitable education for everyone in Ghana more specifically and in Africa more broadly.
Professor Gordon A. Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, delivering remarks
Professor Gordon A. Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, warmly welcomed the participants on behalf of the University of Ghana. He emphasised the University's commitment to inclusive and equitable education, aligning it with the fourth of the University’s strategic priorities.
Madam Gertrude Oforiwaa Fefoame, Chairperson of UNCRPD, addressing participants
Madam Gertrude Oforiwaa Fefoame, the Chairperson for the United Nations Convention on the Right of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), thanked the organisers for hosting such an important conference. She linked "Education for all" (EFA) to the SDG Goal 4, while stressing the urgent need for inclusive education to address challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
In her impassioned address, Madam Fefoame highlighted the challenges of integration in Ghana's education system hindering holistic education. She then called for inclusive education and emphasised the impact of segregated schooling on post-school employment opportunities.
Ms. Farida Nana Efua Bedwei, one of the speakers at the Conference
In an inspiring presentation, Ms. Farida Nana Efua Bedwei, shared her journey from overcoming obstacles to pursuing her dream in the field of software engineering. She highlighted the power of education and the importance of creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities, while calling on the government to create employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Subsequently, Ms. Bedwei underscored the need to combat stigmatisation against those with disabilities, encouraging individuals to stay focused on their dreams, adding that disability is not synonymous with inability.
Dean of the School of Education and Leadership delivering remarks at the opening ceremony
Earlier, the Dean of the School of Education and Leadership, Prof. Gordon S.K. Adika delivered remarks at the opening ceremony and welcomed all participants to the Conference. In acknowledging the efforts of the organising committee of the conference, he stated that “this Conference should mark the beginning of sustained discussions geared towards finding practical solutions for increased inclusivity in Education in Africa.”
The participants called for a significant overhaul in Africa’s educational systems to be more inclusive, the creation of academic materials that are accessible to people with disabilities and an urgent change in societal attitudes towards individuals with diverse abilities.
