University of Rwanda’s College of Education has launched a school for special needs and inclusive education as part of efforts to address the shortage of special needs schools in the country.

The head of the newly established school, Dr Evariste Karangwa, says the school will help address challenges that hinder the full implementation of inclusive practice.

"Between 10 and 15 per cent of our children are those with special needs. Yet, some people consider these students as unable to perform like their colleagues who do not have disabilities which culminate into marginalisation and denial of their rights, including the right to education.

The school is, therefore, intended to offer a solution to such circumstances.”

He added that the school would also act as the cornerstone for inclusive education in the country.

"Our education system does not ensure inclusive practice for students with special needs.

Sometimes when leaders list children of schooling age, those with disabilities are ignored. I hope the school will help create a common understanding on the ability of those children to perform like their counterparts who do not possess disabilities,” he said.

The school that opened this academic year 2014/2015 started with 47 students largely in-service teachers. Students who spoke to The New Times said they were ready to make a difference.

"As a teacher, I was pleased to be admitted under this programme. I have always been using the same teaching methods for both students with disability and those without. I sometimes ignored their queries for more explanation as I wrongly perceived them as dense. But I have now learned that they are capable after attending some lectures,” said Patricia Ntirabampa, one of the pioneer students with a two-year teaching experience.

Feneas Kwizera, another student who has been teaching for four years, said attending the school for special needs education will help him fight the challenges facing children with special needs education.

"We sometimes violate the rights of these children. With special needs education, I will help the community overcome negative perception of children with special needs,” he said.

The school started operating officially on December 16 last year after provisional approval by the Ministry of Education.

With the provisional approval, the school is currently running degree programme while others are to operate after the definitive approval by the cabinet.

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