Inclusive education is the focus of a recent initiative aimed at ensuring equal access to education for all students, regardless of their diverse educational needs. Although global attention on inclusive education has been high, marginalized learners in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to face significant challenges. Variables such as gender, poverty, and disability often compound these disadvantages.
Statistics reveal that 244 million children and youth aged 6 to 18 years are currently not in school. Among those enrolled, over 40% do not transition to upper secondary school in the expected timeframe. The lack of inclusive laws in most countries and the absence of data on marginalized groups hinder progress in inclusive education. Barriers such as inaccessible teaching materials and discrimination further impede students' access to quality education.
The World Bank is committed to supporting inclusive education systems. Actions include working with a wide range of stakeholders such as governments, civil society, and academia, and providing financial instruments and analytical work. The World Bank employs four guiding principles to bolster education systems' inclusivity, starting from where countries are along the inclusive education pathway. This involves systemic change, a twin-track approach, supporting inclusive practices, and stakeholder collaboration.
Specifically, children with disabilities face significant educational barriers. The World Bank proposes four key criteria for disability inclusion in its Investment Project Financing (IPFs) to encourage systemic change and strengthen education systems to accommodate learners with disabilities.
Moreover, the Inclusive Education Policy Learning Exchange promotes a multi-sectoral approach, recognizing the role of various stakeholders, including governments, academia, and the private sector. This exchange has fostered tangible outcomes, such as the establishment of resource centers in Rwanda and the exploration of a Master in Inclusive Education program in Zambia.
The Scottish Government has joined the Foundational Learning Compact (FLC) Trust Fund. This partnership aims to improve learning outcomes in children and youth, emphasizing inclusive education across African partner countries, with a focus on learners with disabilities and scholarships for women and girls.