MUK, address plight of students with disability
Mar 22, 2009
EDITOR—The Government has, on several occasions, tried to improve the lives of marginalised groups, especially people with disabilities.
EDITOR—The Government has, on several occasions, tried to improve the lives of marginalised groups, especially people with disabilities.
However, its efforts have been hampered by some individuals and institutions expected to work hand in hand with the Government! Although Makerere University admits students with disabilities, it has not done much to improve their conditions while at campus.
For instance, some of them are not given ample time to complete their examinations. Students with visual impairment should have helpers, who are paid through the office of the dean. Surprisingly, they are paid only sh30,000 a month! Parliament and the university are aware of this but have kept a deaf ear.
Currently, the students are worried about the university’s policy of outsourcing because it has a number of implications for students with disabilities.
They do not know whether Makerere will continue giving their helpers food, accommodation and wages. There is need to revisit the policy on affirmative action to ensure its implementers are given enough resources. Disability is not inability.
Sylas Byaruhanga
Makerere University
However, its efforts have been hampered by some individuals and institutions expected to work hand in hand with the Government! Although Makerere University admits students with disabilities, it has not done much to improve their conditions while at campus.
For instance, some of them are not given ample time to complete their examinations. Students with visual impairment should have helpers, who are paid through the office of the dean. Surprisingly, they are paid only sh30,000 a month! Parliament and the university are aware of this but have kept a deaf ear.
Currently, the students are worried about the university’s policy of outsourcing because it has a number of implications for students with disabilities.
They do not know whether Makerere will continue giving their helpers food, accommodation and wages. There is need to revisit the policy on affirmative action to ensure its implementers are given enough resources. Disability is not inability.
Sylas Byaruhanga
Makerere University