Kampala, Uganda – Persons with disabilities, under their umbrella organization, the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU), have urged the government to fulfill its commitment to implementing the Inclusive Education Policy, as pledged during the 2018 and 2022 Global Disability Summits in London and Oslo, Norway, respectively.
Unfulfilled Promises on Employment Quotas
Despite government assurances, including a pledge to introduce employment quotas for persons with disabilities (PWDs), no such proposals have been presented to Parliament for approval.
Rising Discrimination and Rights Violations
Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the upcoming Global Disability Summit in Berlin, Germany (April 23), Esther Kyozira, Executive Director of NUDIPU, expressed concern over the delayed implementation of these policies. She noted that the inaction has led to increased discrimination and abuse against PWDs in schools, healthcare facilities, and workplaces.
Improved Census Data, But More Analysis Needed
Kyozira also highlighted progress in correcting disability data from last year’s national census. While initial figures from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) recorded PWDs at 5.7% of the population, updated statistics now place the figure at 13.6%—reflecting over 6 million Ugandans with disabilities. However, she stressed the need for deeper analysis to ensure equitable representation in policymaking.
Challenges in Education for Blind Students
The call comes amid concerns over poor performance among blind students in national exams. In last year’s ALevel results, only 10 out of 23 blind candidates passed, with failures attributed to the lack of specialized ICT equipment and software for exam interpretation, as explained by Richard Anguyo, Chairman of the Uganda National Association of the Blind.
Demand for Rights Protection
NUDIPU emphasized that these demands align with Uganda’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Persons with Disabilities Act (Chapter 115), which mandate equal opportunities and protection against discrimination.
As the Global Disability Summit approaches, activists hope for renewed government action to ensure inclusive policies are not just promised—but implemented.
