30/05/2026
Joy Abilities Empowerment (JAE) has called for increased investment in disability-friendly infrastructure and the deployment of more special needs teachers in schools, saying the current situation is limiting access to education for children with disabilities in Machinga District.
JAE executive director Bernadette Vaz said about 70 percent of children living with various disabilities in the district have limited or no access to education due to inadequate learning facilities and a shortage of trained special needs teachers.
She made the remarks while reacting to a report presented during a Machinga District Council meeting, where Development Committee chairperson Councillor Martin Madan disclosed that the council has adopted plans to ensure all development projects are inclusive and accessible to people with disabilities.
Vaz welcomed the council's commitment, describing it as a positive step towards addressing barriers that continue to prevent people with disabilities from accessing essential services, including education.
According to Vaz, many schools and public institutions in the district lack disability-friendly infrastructure such as ramps, accessible toilets and learning materials tailored to the needs of learners with disabilities.
(Report by Haneeph Maulana-Correspondent)
