The National Assembly, Departmental Committee on Education engaged with stakeholders on the Learners with Disabilities Bill, 2023. The Bill aims to address the exclusion of learners with disabilities from the education system in Kenya.

In a meeting led by Committee Vice Chairperson, Hon. Malulu Injendi (Malava), the Committee received submissions from representatives from the National Disabilities Forum, Mr. Alan Herbert and Mr. Haya Dennis. 

Members acknowledged that this Bill will provide a legal framework to ensure that learners with disabilities have equal access to education at all levels.

Representatives from the National Disabilities Forum raised concerns about the current challenges faced by learners with disabilities, such as outdated terminology, inadequate infrastructure, and limited resources. They emphasized the need for inclusive and accessible learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of these students.

In their submissions, they pointed out several aspects of the Bill, including the need for clearer definitions, the role of parents and guardians, and the potential overlap with existing educational programs.

The Bill places a legal obligation on the National Government and county governments to ensure that learners with disabilities have access to quality education on par with their peers.

It also seeks to replace outdated and discriminatory terms with inclusive language that reflects the dignity and respect of learners with disabilities and the establishment of special needs education resource centers which will provide support services and resources to learners with disabilities and their families.

The Committee acknowledged the importance of the Bill and pledged to expedite its consideration.