What we do

Approximately 15 per cent of the population, representing over 1 billion people in the world have a disability. This figure is still accelerating in line with population increases, growing poverty, natural disasters, ongoing conflicts and an aging population. With such a large number of people living with a disability, it is vital that access to educational opportunities be made widely available. In this regard, opportunities for open and distance learning (ODL) may provide some solution to the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities in accessing information and education. Furthermore, access to information is recognized as one of the key fundamental human rights. Without access to reliable information and effective communication means, it is difficult to ensure an effective, inclusive and open learning process.

UNESCO promotes universal access to information and knowledge through the development of the Guidelines on the Inclusion of Learners with Disabilities in Open and Distance Learning. The guidelines provides an specific guidance for governments, institutions, instructors and quality assurance and recognition bodies on developing open and distance learning platforms and processes aimed at taking into consideration the needs of all learners. The guidelines focus mainly on open solutions, including OER.