Kyambogo University, a leading institution in Uganda for disability-inclusive education, is hosting the first East African Conference on Disability-Inclusive Higher Education.
Taking place from November 13 to 14, the two-day conference brings together educators, policymakers, and advocates from across the region to explore strategies for advancing disability inclusion in higher education.
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In a recent press briefing, Kyambogo University Vice Chancellor Professor Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya underscored the university’s longstanding dedication to inclusive education.
“Kyambogo University is Uganda’s leader in disability inclusion, offering specialised programs that prioritise equity, social justice, and lifelong learning for marginalised groups,” he stated.
Professor Katunguka also noted that Kyambogo was the first university in Uganda to implement an Institutional Disability Policy and establish a Disability Resource Center.
With 241 students with disabilities across 12 schools and faculties, Kyambogo has built a strong reputation as Uganda’s premier university for disability-inclusive education.
The institution provides critical support services, such as technicians for assistive technologies, sign language interpreters, and personal assistants, to ensure students and staff with disabilities can fully participate in academic life.
Professor Katunguka highlighted the need for additional funding to meet the university’s budget of over three billion shillings to maintain and expand these services.
He also mentioned that public universities often refer students with special needs to Kyambogo, adding to the demand for financial support.
The conference, organised by Kyambogo’s Faculty of Special Needs and Rehabilitation, seeks to address key gaps in disability advocacy and research within higher education.
“We are honoured to lead this initiative and make it a rotational East African conference,” Professor Katunguka said. “This platform will enable ongoing intellectual exchange, advocacy, and networking among academics and practitioners, not just from East Africa but from other regions as well.”
This groundbreaking conference represents a significant step toward enhancing disability inclusion in East African higher education, with hopes to set a benchmark for institutions across the continent.
