Inclusive Higher Education Takes Center Stage in Rwanda: Key Events and Discussions

Nyagatare, Rwanda - July 2024

In a significant stride towards inclusive education, Rwanda will host pivotal events under the "Advance Inclusion for Students with Disabilities on Higher Education in Rwanda" (ANSWER) project. These events will bring together key stakeholders to discuss, strategize, and implement policies aimed at enhancing accessibility in higher education for students with disabilities.

ANSWER 1st National Conference: A Milestone Event

The first national conference of the ANSWER project, will be held on July 12, 2024, at the East African University Rwanda (EAUR) in Nyagatare, and represents a landmark gathering. The conference aims to promote active collaboration and networking among policymakers, education personnel, NGOs, the private sector, and other relevant stakeholders.

Key objectives of the conference include presenting the ANSWER project's expected results and consortium, engaging stakeholders in multi-stakeholder working groups, and fostering discussions on the current status of inclusion in higher education in Rwanda. The event will feature presentations from our parnters, such as Noelia López, Senior Project Manager from the University of Alicante, who will highlight the project's goals and milestones .

The agenda will also include a presentation by NUDOR on supporting the implementation of inclusive policies in higher learning institutions, emphasizing the role of support centers and local networks .

ANSWER Management Meeting: Strategic Planning and Implementation

On July 9, 2024, the ANSWER Management Meeting will be held at EAUR's Nyagatare campus. This meeting will focus on discussing specific work packages, deliverables, and the responsibilities of the project's partners. Key sessions will cover various aspects of project management, including technical, financial, and administrative matters .

Notable sessions will include discussions on assistive technology purchases, capacity building through blended learning, and the establishment of support centers for students with disabilities. The meeting will also delve into systemic impact through stakeholder identification and the creation of multi-stakeholder working groups.

Training of Trainers 3

Participants will delve into the importance of creating inclusive workplaces and learn about the benefits of employing people with disabilities. The program will also raise awareness about the disability advocacy movement and enhance self-advocacy skills among students with disabilities. Trainers from renowned institutions, including the University of Macedonia and the University of Alicante, will lead the sessions.

The event's methodology will be primarily expository, featuring presentations, case studies, workshops, and group discussions. Topics covered will include identifying and addressing the needs of learners with disabilities, creating and utilizing locally made educational materials, and developing individualized transition plans for students.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum for Inclusive Education

The ANSWER project's upcoming events will potentially mark significant progress in advancing inclusion for students with disabilities in higher education in Rwanda. The collaborative efforts and strategic discussions during these events underscore the commitment of all stakeholders to create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

As the ANSWER project continues to move forward, the insights and strategies that we hope to develop during these events will play a crucial role in shaping policies and practices that ensure equitable access to education for all students.

Stay tuned to not miss any of the updates on next week's big events!