In the North West and South West regions of Cameroon, many children with different forms of disabilities have been unable to attend school for years due to insecurity, displacement, stigma, and the lack of adapted learning environments. In response, UNICEF, in partnership with the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services and the Presbyterian Community Rehabilitation Services, is working across affected communities to restore access to education through inclusive approaches.
Beyond access to learning spaces, the project focuses on creating an enabling environment, strengthening family and community support, and improving service delivery. Over 3,000 children have been screened in schools and Temporary Learning Spaces to identify disabilities and determine the specific support each child needs to learn. UNICEF has trained more than 82 teachers and facilitators working in schools and Temporary Learning Spaces on inclusive education practices, including Universal Design for Learning, basic Braille and sign language, and psychosocial support for children affected by conflict and trauma. While progress has been made, the needs remain immense. Less than half of children with disabilities are currently accessing the services they require, particularly in crisis-affected settings.