Post Covid-19 Period in inclusive Settings in Kenya. Challenges for Children with Disabilities

Abstract or Introduction

The study explores the challenges facing children with disabilities and opportunities arising thereof in inclusive settings during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study is based on findings from the library sources and observations are that children with disabilities missed all benefits associated with being in schools such as lack of understanding friends and teachers, regular meals, and emotional stability due to structured school routines. Most children with disabilities perceive school as their second home as they stay there for most of the year. During the pandemic, it was observed that children with disabilities missed assistance of school friends and services of interpreters, transcribers and readers.

In addition, children with disabilities did not benefit from online teaching and learning due to their various forms of disability and diverse needs. There was also no prior preparation before the school closure to train teachers and other staff on how to continue teaching or training children with special needs. To date, there are still challenges facing the regular education systems such as lack of internet connectivity in most areas of the country, inadequate training of teachers, lack of bundles and gadgets necessary to facilitate learning.