Kisumu, Kenya — The Kenyan government has taken a significant step towards inclusive education by organizing a two-day special needs games event in Seme Sub-county. The initiative, aimed at fostering social integration and showcasing the talents of children with disabilities, was flagged off by Children’s Principal Secretary Caren Agengo at Kombewa. Agengo emphasized that the event provides a platform for children with disabilities to build confidence, access equal opportunities, and challenge societal stigmas that have historically excluded them from education and extracurricular activities.
The event has gathered pupils with special needs from across the region, focusing on nurturing talent, enhancing physical and mental well — being, and addressing the stigma that has long kept many children out of school. “We are giving children the opportunity to participate in sports and theatre, and allow the best performers to advance to the next level, “Agengo said highlighting the program’s dual goals of competition and societal transformation.
Agengo expressed concern over the high number of children with disabilities still hidden at home, particularly in rural areas, noting that these children are being deprived of their fundamental rights to education, healthcare, and protection. The government, she said is working closely with partner agencies to identify such children, assess their needs, and integrate them into schools, providing medical care and assistive devices to support their learning and development.
Teacher Service Commission (TSC) Commissioner Timon Oyucho revealed that trained special needs teachers have been deployed to support learners during the games and within schools. Oyucho attributed the significant progress in access to education for children with disabilities in Seme to collaboration with the Ministry of Education, noting that by 2024, the number of schools capable of absorbing these learners had grown from four to over 50.
The surge in participation in the games, from 12 children in previous years to 139 this year, reflects growing awareness and acceptance within the community. Officials are optimistic that this initiative will encourage more families to bring children with disabilities out of hiding and enroll them in school, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.
The special needs games are part of broader government efforts to ensure no child is left behind in Kenya’s education system.
Source: Impulsradio & Television Africa
