Africa-Press – Gambia. Catholic Relief Services (CRS), with funding from the European Union (EU) Delegation in The Gambia, has launched a nationwide advocacy caravan promoting inclusive education and opportunities for children with disabilities.
The initiative forms part of a 30-month project titled “Disability Inclusive Pathways, Empowering Children with Disabilities Through Education, Technology, and Play.” CRS is implementing the project in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, including the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), National Organization for Disabled and Orphans (NODO), Special Olympics, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, and the National Council for Civic Education.
The caravan seeks to increase parental involvement in monitoring and supporting their children’s education while fostering stronger collaboration and trust between parents and schools. It also aims to raise awareness about disability rights, reduce stigma, and promote an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Speaking at the launch, CRS Project Manager Saidina Alieu Jarjou disclosed that many children with disabilities are still denied their right to education. He reaffirmed CRS’s commitment to promoting enrollment and retention of children with disabilities in mainstream schools.
“No nation can develop if part of the population is left behind. This advocacy caravan is designed to raise awareness among parents and communities about the long-term benefits of education, while also encouraging greater involvement of fathers in supporting their children’s academic progress,” Jarjou said.
Governor Seddy Lamin Bah of the Lower River Region welcomed the caravan team. He commended the EU and CRS for what he described as an important milestone. He emphasized that the initiative will strengthen collaboration between the government, stakeholders, and school authorities in creating a more accountable and supportive learning environment.
He assured the team of the government’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for children with disabilities where they can learn and thrive.
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