Opinion
Are we genuinely prepared to advance inclusive education?
When children interact daily, socially and academically with peers who are diverse and different, a certain magic spontaneously happens. They learn to understand – and invariably also appreciate – that each individual comes with their own characteristics, strengths and limitations.
Nothing worth having comes easy. Entirely apt, when we talk Inclusive Education. Beyond being an education philosophy, it is a life skill that can have the most positive, far-reaching consequences. When children interact daily, socially and academically with peers who are diverse and different, a certain magic spontaneously happens. They learn to understand – and invariably also appreciate – that each individual comes with their own characteristics, strengths and limitations. They grow up and take these skills and sensibilities along with them as adults into their wider spheres. They have, to a large extent, already inculcated greater sensitivity, better understanding, and greater tolerance…Qualities in frighteningly short supply in today’s world.
None of this, as we said, would come easy. Implementing inclusivity in education in the real world would call for resources, the will and proper monitoring. It would require a learning resource centre or an in-house team of specialists who could address the unique needs of special needs children. Enthusiastic, skilled and sensitized teaching staff would be needed to teach inclusively. The curriculum would need to include locally relevant themes and contributions by marginalized and minority groups. Parental involvement would need to be maximised. Given the challenges compounded by low funding, and often lower will or support, inclusivity is all too often excluded completely.
Are we genuinely prepared to advance inclusive education? It would mean holding governments accountable for implementing antidiscrimination legislation, and legal mandates for inclusion. Schools would need to receive adequate and sustainable financial support. Parents would need to be empowered to assert their children’s right to education in inclusive settings. Inclusive education would need to be made a shared responsibility, including educators, social workers, parents and students to participate in its design, delivery and monitoring.
Difficult, yes, but could we at least try to open our schools and our minds, one tiny chink at a time…?
