Inclusive Quality Education for Refugee Children with Cerebral Palsy in Uganda

 Introduction 

It is important to note that Disability is a global development issue to be addressed through inclusion using the human Rights approach.  If the Sustainable Development Goals must be achieved, there is need to leave no one behind thus the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is paramount. Further, Uganda ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) on the 25th of September 2008 signifying its commitment to implement issues of disability at international standards. 

In line with the inclusion principle, Keynes Disability Association (KDA) in collaboration with the Cohere assessed displaced children living with cerebral Palsy to identify their learning potentials and determine suitable education placements. Additionally Training of parents was also carried concurrently to equip them with basic skills in managing children with this condition. The exercise was in Rwamwanja refugee settlement camp in Kamwenge District and targeted groups were from the refugee camp and host communities.

Objectives of the Assignment 

1. Conduct Learning Assessment of children with cerebral palsy to determine their education abilities
2. Build capacity of Parents in basic care and management of children living with Cerebral Palsy   

 Parents’ Training in Cerebral Palsy 

Training for parents was carried out within Rwamwanja Refugee Camp but run-on different seminars.     

 Scope of the Training 

 The training covered the following topics to enable parents and caregivers get some basic techniques in managing displaced children with cerebral palsy in Uganda 

• Defining Cerebral palsy 
• How to recognize Cerebral palsy   
• Causes 
• Management techniques (Exercises, Use of Therapy toys, Positioning, Feeding, Self care and use of Assistive devices)