Integration of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students Advances in Senegal's Schools

PIKINE, Senegal (TAE)— In a pioneering effort to promote inclusive education, a select number of schools in Senegal, including Apix Guinaw Rails Sud in a suburb of Dakar, have begun integrating deaf and hard-of-hearing students into regular classrooms. This initiative represents a significant shift from the traditional model of segregating students based on their hearing capabilities.

Mouhamed Sall, a student benefiting from this approach, effortlessly communicates with both old and new classmates using sign language, sometimes assisted by interpreters. The integration has fostered a mutual learning environment where hearing students eagerly learn sign language, enhancing camaraderie and understanding within the classroom.

Despite approximately 60% of children with disabilities in Senegal not attending school, according to UNICEF, the lack of comprehensive data and a national strategy for inclusive education has slowed progress. Sara Poehlman from UNICEF Senegal emphasized the necessity for government action to ensure educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their abilities.

The recent success of Senegal's deaf football team and increased efforts to educate hard-of-hearing voters indicate a positive shift towards greater societal inclusion. However, significant challenges remain. Stigma around disabilities persists, leading some parents to hide their children from the public eye, which can prevent them from accessing educational opportunities.

Humanity and Inclusion, in partnership with Senegal’s education ministry, has been instrumental in promoting mixed classes. They support the hiring of assistants proficient in sign language, a critical component in bridging the communication gap. Papa Amadou, one of the assistants, noted, "We see that all children are on an equal footing, and that’s why we make an inclusive class or school by harmonizing with the hearing pupils."

Apix's school director, Mamadou Konte, highlighted the need for more teacher training to accommodate the varied communication needs of students. The challenges of integration are further compounded by logistical issues such as commuting costs for students living far from the schools.

The government has launched initiatives like the Carte de l’Égalité, providing financial assistance to help families access specialized schools. However, stakeholders stress the importance of implementing inclusive programs directly within the public schooling system to ensure broader reach and impact.

As Senegal continues to develop and refine its approach to inclusive education, the experiences of students like Mouhamed Sall and the dedicated efforts of educators and assistants at schools like Apix Guinaw Rails Sud serve as a beacon of progress and hope for a more inclusive future.