GFD Launches Sensitisation Tour to Promote Inclusive Education

The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) in collaboration with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has embarked on a nationwide sensitisation tour to encourage parents of children with disabilities to enroll them in school. The tour, supported by the European Union (EU), aims to promote inclusive education and provide accessibility measures for children with disabilities. The sensitisation team, comprising representatives from GFD, National Human Rights Commission, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, National Organisation for Disables and Ophans (NODO), and Special Olympics, conducted radio talk shows and live phone-in programs to raise awareness on the importance of inclusive education. GFD Board Member, Mr. Sheriff Kinteh, highlighted the organisation's efforts to provide learning devices for physically challenged, visually impaired, and deaf/hard of hearing children. He also emphasised the need to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, citing the Disabilities Act 2021. The Act stipulates penalties for those found guilty of mockery, discrimination, or denying persons with disabilities employment opportunities. Mr. Kinteh explained GFD established skills training center, which provided vocational training and support to women with disabilities, by training them on sawing and provided with sawing machines, after being certified, after nine months training. The sensitisation tour is part of GFD's efforts to promote inclusive practices and enhance access to education for children with disabilities in The Gambia.

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