State constructs Sh3m classrooms for learners with special needs

The government has constructed a special unit to accommodate learners living with disabilities in Migori county.
The Sh3 million unit at Migori Primary and Junior Secondary School (JSS) is aimed at saving parents who have been travelling to Kisii county and other parts of the country to access special schools for their children.
The launch of the unit by the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) signals the end of the struggle to get proper education for learners with special needs.
The special unit was elevated to the status of Migori Special School for the Disabled, having obtained registration from the Ministry of Education.
Consequently, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has appointed a new headteacher to oversee operations at the specialized educational facility.
NFDK Programs and Committee Chairperson Julia Ojiambo described the project as a game-changer.
"We cannot fight for inclusive education if we cannot provide facilities," she said.
Speaking during the launch of the institution, Prof Ojiambo encouraged parents not to hide their children at home and bring them to special schools.
In the region, myths associated with disability have prevented some parents from enrolling their children in school.
Before establishing classrooms and a workshop, NFDK assessed the capacity of the school to cater for inclusive education, numbers, and community.
"We also assessed the need in terms of learners. We can only provide for learners living with disability," Ojiambo said.
Prof Rose Odhiambo, the Chief Officer for Education, Sports, Gender, and Culture emphasized the need for an all-inclusive education.
"The greatest thing that has happened today is having a workshop. We are taking notes seriously on the areas where the gaps are and where we can fill as a county," Prof Odhiambo said.
She promised to work with the national government to ensure success of the process.
The workshop provides an opportunity for persons living with disability who cannot go directly to the TVETs to learn.
Migori Primary and Junior Secondary principal Moses Maranda, said the building funded by NFDK will cater to special children.
"We have enough staff to handle the special unit," Mr Maranda said.
Notably, eight teachers will be specifically recruited to cater to the unique needs of students at the special school.