Svay Chrum Primary School students study in their classroom in Svay Reing province on May 19, 2023. Yousos Apdoulrashim
The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, with support from UNICEF, has unveiled the Inclusive Education Action Plan 2024-2028, aiming to provide quality education to all children, including those with disabilities, representing a significant step towards fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment in Cambodia, according to a July 1 UNICEF press release.
It noted one in ten children globally has a disability, with nearly half of these children residing in Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, children with disabilities are three times less likely to attend school than their peers.
The release stated that the new plan addresses this disparity by focusing on three primary goals: changing societal attitudes, providing necessary tools and support and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.
Ung Borath, secretary of state at the ministry, emphasised the government’s dedication to inclusive education.
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“The adoption of the [plan] demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing quality education for all children. By addressing the barriers faced by children with disabilities, we aim to create an educational system that is truly inclusive and equitable,” he was quoted as saying in the press release.
The plan will work to alter societal perceptions, promoting inclusiveness and preventing stigma and discrimination. It also aims to ensure that children with disabilities have access to necessary assistive technology and services.
It also highlights the importance of collaboration across different areas of government, NGOs, UN organisations and development partners (DPs) to create a supportive environment for these children.
“The EU believes that education for all is the key to unlocking the potential of Cambodian youth and is essential for reducing poverty and creating jobs in the country. Inclusive education for persons with disabilities provides equal opportunities and recognises the importance of their contribution to the sustainable development of the country,” said Koen Everaert, deputy head of cooperation for the EU Delegation to Cambodia.
USAID Cambodia Mission director Kerry Pelzman noted the integral role of inclusive education in their investments, highlighting the use of evidence and data to drive decision-making and ensure no child is left behind.
“USAID is proud of our partnership with the education ministry, the EU, UNICEF and other stakeholders to ensure quality education for all children with and without disabilities, particularly focusing on improving their literacy skills in mainstream and special schools,” she said.
The launch of the action plan comes at a critical time, with the 2019 Cambodia Population Census revealing that 689,532 people aged five and up have a disability, including approximately 37,500 children aged five to fourteen.
Will Parks, UNICEF representative in Cambodia, underscored the urgent need for inclusive education.
“Children with disabilities face immense challenges in obtaining education, accessing healthcare and fully participating in society. They often encounter stigma and discrimination and lack access to inclusive education programmes. If swiftly implemented, this new plan will significantly enhance access to high-quality education for children with disabilities,” he said.
UNICEF Cambodia, along with its DPs, remains committed to supporting the government in implementing these initiatives in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SGD4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, as per the press release.
