Every learner matters: Disability inclusion and gender equality in education

Eliminating barriers to education and creating accessible and inclusive learning environments have been long-standing objectives of both UNESCO and Plan International. This commitment is further addressed by the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development with its rights-based vision of leaving no one behind while emphasizing the need to reach the furthest behind first.  

The inclusion of learners with disabilities in education demands going beyond access to schooling and adequate infrastructure: it is also a matter of assuring their participation, learning, progression and attainment, providing accessible learning materials and resources, creating safe, friendly and accessible environments, ensuring teachers and other school staff are adequately trained and supported, and working with schools and communities to tackle bullying, stigma and discrimination. 

The intersection of gender with disability acts as a magnifier resulting in further education deprivation. It is fundamental to have an intentional focus on inclusion in education and to tackle the root causes of exclusion, including inequality in the distribution of resources and power and the social and gender norms that perpetuate difference. 

The webinar will discuss disability and gender inequality as intersecting challenges to education. It will also address key topics as comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), bullying and violence, school health and nutrition.

Objectives

• Share the latest data and monitoring tools for key education indicators examining disability and gender at the national, regional and global levels. 
• Better understand the intersection between gender equality and disability inclusion in education.
• Share good practices and lessons that promote and ensure quality, inclusive and gender-transformative education.
• Identify challenges and recommendations to be addressed at different levels, including by governments, teachers and families.

Target audiences

Ministry of education staff, education practitioners and educators; researchers and experts; bilateral, multilateral and other development partners; private sector stakeholders; representatives of youth organizations; representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities; youth/learners with disabilities; representatives of parents and teachers; and representatives of inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations supporting inclusive education.

Languages

The webinar will be available in English, French and Spanish with International Sign Language interpretation. Automatic closed captions will be provided.