UWEZO Youth Empowerment, a pivotal partner in the Erasmus+ ANSWER project, is making significant strides in promoting inclusion for students with disabilities in higher education institutions. In an exclusive interview, Mr. Satir Omar Bahati, the Founding Executive Director of UWEZO Youth Empowerment, shares insights into the organization's efforts, the expectations from their partnership with the ANSWER project, and provides expert recommendations on how to enhance inclusion.
A Vision for Inclusion
Under Mr. Bahati's leadership, UWEZO Youth Empowerment has been at the forefront of advocating for students with disabilities, aiming to create equitable opportunities within higher education. “Our mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of their physical or cognitive challenges, has access to quality education and can thrive in an inclusive academic environment,” Mr. Bahati explains.
Key Initiatives and Partnerships
The ANSWER project, co-funded by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ program, has been instrumental in this mission. UWEZO Youth Empowerment's involvement in the project focuses on several key initiatives designed to improve accessibility and support for students with disabilities. These initiatives include developing specialized training programs for educators, advocating for policy changes within institutions, and enhancing physical and digital infrastructure to accommodate diverse needs.
Expectations from the ANSWER Partnership
Mr. Bahati is optimistic about the outcomes of the ANSWER project. “We expect this partnership to bring about substantial improvements in how higher education institutions address the needs of students with disabilities. By working collaboratively with other stakeholders, we hope to set new standards for accessibility and support,” he says.
He highlights that one of the most anticipated outcomes is the creation of a comprehensive toolkit that will serve as a resource for institutions to implement best practices in inclusion. This toolkit will address various aspects of the student experience, from application processes to classroom accommodations.
Recommendations for Enhancing Inclusion
In his role, Mr. Bahati has also outlined several recommendations for institutions seeking to enhance inclusion. These include:
- Training and Awareness: “Educators and administrative staff must receive ongoing training to understand the diverse needs of students with disabilities and to develop empathetic, effective teaching strategies,” Bahati emphasizes.
- Inclusive Policies: Institutions should adopt inclusive policies that not only comply with legal requirements but also actively promote an inclusive culture. This includes reviewing and revising admission policies, academic accommodations, and support services.
- Student Engagement: Involving students with disabilities in the development of policies and practices can provide valuable insights and ensure that solutions are genuinely effective and relevant.
- Resource Allocation: Adequate funding and resources should be allocated to support accessibility improvements, including physical modifications to campus facilities and the provision of assistive technologies.
See full interview here.
