By Rachel Amuge,
KAMPALA
Disability rights activists have called on the government to increase budgetary allocations for persons with disabilities (PWDs), particularly in the education sector, to support their learning needs with special equipment and improve their quality of life in schools.
Speaking to the press during a dialogue on inclusive education and disability rights, Dr. Damalie Naggita Musoke, an Associate Professor at the Disability Law and Rights Centre, School of Law, Makerere University, emphasized the need for specific funding directed toward learners with disabilities.
“In the education sector, a certain amount of money for disabilities is supposed to be specified and prioritized,” Dr. Naggita said. “Persons with disabilities need a lot of resources to help them throughout their learning.”
She added that despite legal frameworks promoting equality, persons with disabilities still face widespread discrimination and limited access to essential services.
“We need the government and civil society organizations to take more proactive steps in supporting the disability community,” she urged.
Lydia Nabiryo, from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development under the Department of Equity and Rights, acknowledged the challenges and reaffirmed government efforts to bridge the gap.
“As government, we are working to strengthen different policies and initiate several programs to improve the daily lives of persons with disabilities,” Nabiryo said.
The activists urged that inclusive education should not be treated as a secondary concern, but rather a central part of Uganda’s development agenda.
