Promoting inclusivity and championing the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) was on full display during the 15th Disability Awareness Day, held at the Kenyatta University Comprehensive School. The event, which took place on Friday, 21st March 2025 , was attended by key figures in education, advocacy, and the disability services sector, all coming together to advance the conversation around disability inclusion and support.
The theme for this year’s event, 'Disability Inclusion through Community Outreach Activities,' underscored the University’s vision of fostering an inclusive environment for students with disabilities both on and off-campus. The Chief Guest, Mr. Frederick Haga, the Head of the Directorate of Special Needs Education at the Ministry of Education, graced the event. He also took time to meet with the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, for a courtesy call before proceeding to the venue.
During the courtesy call between Mr. Frederick Haga and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, the two leaders along with partners of the event discussed the progress made in disability inclusion at Kenyatta University and the broader educational landscape in Kenya. Mr. Haga reflected on his personal experience with the University, recalling his involvement in the inaugural Disability Awareness Day in 1993.
Both leaders acknowledged the significant strides made over the years and expressed their shared commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to quality education and a supportive learning environment. They also touched on the importance of continued collaboration between the Ministry of Education and institutions like Kenyatta University to create inclusive policies and practices that empower students with disabilities.
The day featured insightful speeches, discussions, and interactions that highlighted the importance of building a more inclusive society. “For the past 15 years, Kenyatta University has not only provided a platform for people with disabilities to thrive but has also integrated community outreach to further push the envelope on inclusion,” said Prof. Wanjohi in her address. She emphasised that this year’s approach aimed to sensitise educators and trainers about the importance of adapting their methods to cater to learners with disabilities. She also remarked on the significance of equal opportunities for individuals who are differently-abled, ensuring they can interact, integrate, and succeed alongside their peers.
Talks from key speakers like Dr. Ann Hinga, the German Lecturer and Chair of the Organising Committee, who noted that the event was a collective effort to continue driving the message of disability inclusion. Ms Jane Waithera, Head of the Disability Inclusion Advisory Unit at Light for the World, echoed these sentiments, sharing her fourth-year involvement with the event and the organisation's continued support for
initiatives promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
A notable moment during the event was the inspiring remarks made by Mr. Richard Mativu, Country Director of Light for the World, who spoke on the organisation’s long-standing partnership with Kenyatta University since 2020. He praised the institution’s commitment to inclusivity, highlighting programs that empower PWDs through career mentoring, job-ready skills training, and direct engagement with employers. Mativu also emphasised the critical role Kenyatta University plays in making a tangible impact on the lives of PWDs, ensuring they are not only educated but integrated into society as confident, capable individuals.
Following the speeches and celebrations, the event transitioned into a practical training session for both staff and students. Facilitated by the directorate and attending organisations, including Next Step Foundation, SightSavers, Light for the World and the Ministry of Education, the training focused on disability inclusion in education and the workplace. The session provided valuable insights on how to better support PWDs,
equipping participants with essential skills in advocacy, self-empowerment, and fostering inclusive environments. Topics included developing accessible learning materials, providing reasonable accommodations, and addressing the specific needs of students with different disabilities.
As the event unfolded, discussions turned to the challenges faced by PWDs, particularly in transitioning from special schools to mainstream institutions like Kenyatta University. Prof. James Kung’u, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), noted that KU had made strides in accommodating students with disabilities, but the conversation must continue to evolve to meet their needs effectively. “We need to look at how we can enhance the transition for students with disabilities, especially those coming from special schools,” said Prof. Kung’u. The importance of providing continuous support to these students, both socially and academically, was a key point discussed throughout the day.
Dr. Lubna Mazrui, Director, Directorate of Disability Services, shared her thoughts on the broader impact of the event, saying, "This event is not just about awareness for today. It’s about ensuring that we continue to build on what we have accomplished and continue to find ways to make institutions like Kenyatta University even more inclusive.”
Mr. Charles Kamande, the Headteacher of KU Comprehensive School, thanked the University for choosing the School as the host for the event, noting it was the first time an institution outside the University hosted the Disability Awareness Day. He reflected on the collaborative effort to ensure that PWDs are supported at every level, in education and beyond.
The event ended on a high note with performances from gospel singer Dennis Kariuki, popularly known as Denno, whose hit song 'Mbona' had the audience clapping along in celebration of the day’s theme. His presence was a reminder of the broader community support for PWDs and the positive impact of inclusive events such as this one.
As Kenyatta University continues to strive for excellence in inclusion, the Disability Awareness Day serves as both a reflection of the progress made and a call to action to continue advocating for a world where every person, regardless of their abilities, has equal opportunities to thrive.
With institutions like Kenyatta University leading the charge in disability inclusion, the future looks brighter for persons with disabilities, not just in Kenya but across the globe.