Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini has strengthened its push for inclusive education following the signing of a new partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to improve school transport for learners with disabilities.
Speaking at The George Hotel in Manzini, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla said the introduction of universally designed buses represents a firm national commitment to removing mobility barriers and expanding opportunities for all learners.
Dladla said the agreement aligns with Eswatini’s broader goals of equity, social justice and accessible essential services. She noted that many children with disabilities continue to miss school due to inaccessible transport, poor rural roads and a shortage of specialised vehicles.
She stressed that inclusive education can only be realised when every child can reach school safely and learn in a supportive environment.
The DPM emphasised the need for coordinated investment in safer roads, universal design in transport planning and stronger collaboration among the education, transport and local government sectors.
She urged that organisations of persons with disabilities be central to these efforts, reiterating the principle of “nothing about us without us.”
While welcoming the JICA support, Dladla said buses alone will not solve the long-standing challenges but should mark the beginning of sustained action.
She thanked Japan for its continued partnership and expressed confidence that through joint efforts, no child will be excluded from education due to disability or lack of transport.
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