The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has reaffirmed its pivotal role in championing inclusive education following the launch of the Third Phase of the nationwide distribution of assistive devices and technologies, a landmark government initiative that will benefit more than 11,000 learners with special needs and disabilities across the country.
The exercise, officially flagged off by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba at KISE headquarters, will see 11,139 assistive devices distributed to 321 inclusive programmes and special schools across all 47 counties, targeting learners with visual, hearing, physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Describing the programme as a defining step towards educational equity, Cabinet Secretary Ogamba said the Government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that disability never becomes a barrier to quality education. He noted that the distribution of assistive technologies is not merely about providing learning equipment but about restoring dignity, promoting independence and unlocking the potential of thousands of learners.
The Cabinet Secretary observed that assistive devices have proven to transform learning environments by enabling children with disabilities to actively participate in classrooms, improve academic performance and build confidence. He further announced that the Ministry of Education is expanding the programme to reach learners with disabilities in senior schools, Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions, colleges and universities, ensuring that support follows learners throughout every stage of their education.
To strengthen planning and ensure equitable resource allocation, Ogamba directed KISE to undertake a comprehensive nationwide assessment of learners with disabilities. The exercise, he said, will establish the exact number of learners requiring specialised support, identify existing interventions and determine the remaining gaps to facilitate evidence-based planning.
The Cabinet Secretary also instructed the institute to work towards achieving a one-to-one ratio in the provision of assistive devices so that every learner who requires specialised technology receives it without delay.
Welcoming the directive, KISE Director Norman Kiogora said the third phase of the programme marks a significant breakthrough in eliminating the barriers that have historically denied children with disabilities equal access to education.
“Today, more than 11,000 learners will benefit from this programme. These assistive devices are removing the barriers that have prevented learners with visual, hearing, physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities from accessing education. Every learner deserves the opportunity to study with dignity and enjoy the same educational opportunities as every other child in Kenya,” said Kiogora.
He affirmed that KISE will immediately embark on the nationwide needs assessment as directed by the Cabinet Secretary, noting that understanding the unique needs of every learner is fundamental to delivering effective and sustainable interventions.
“We must know where every learner is, the support they currently have and the gaps that still exist. Only then can we plan effectively and ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most. This assessment will provide the foundation for strengthening inclusive education across the country,” he said.
Kiogora further revealed that KISE will introduce a geotagging system for every assistive device distributed under the programme to enhance accountability and improve monitoring.
According to the Director, every device issued to a learner will be digitally tracked to establish who is using it, assess its impact on learning and determine when maintenance or replacement becomes necessary.
“Distribution is only the beginning. We have a responsibility to ensure that every assistive device continues serving the learner throughout its intended lifespan. Through geotagging, we will monitor the location, utilisation and effectiveness of every device, guaranteeing that these valuable resources deliver lasting impact,” he explained.
Kiogora also lauded the Social Health Authority (SHA) for easing access to specialised assessment services for learners with disabilities.
He disclosed that all learners and clients who visit KISE for psychoeducational assessments are fully covered under SHA, eliminating financial barriers that previously limited access to critical services. He added that KISE’s Level Three health facility continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to provide comprehensive healthcare and assessment services tailored to learners with special needs.
“We are grateful that SHA has come on board to support our learners. Every client who comes to KISE for assessment is now covered, allowing families to access specialised servicesb without worrying about the cost. This partnership has strengthened our capacity to serve learners with disabilities and ensure that no child is denied support because of financial constraints,” he said.
The latest rollout builds on the success of the previous phases, which have collectively enhanced access to education for thousands of learners with disabilities by improving classroom participation, learner retention and academic performance through the provision of specialised assistive technologies.
As KISE continues to spearhead Kenya’s inclusive education agenda, the third phase of the distribution programme signals a renewed national commitment to creating an education system where every learner, regardless of ability or circumstance, is equipped with the tools, opportunities and support necessary to realise their full potential.
Discover more from Newsroom Kenya
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
