The Educator: inclusive education

A publication of The International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI)

In most countries in the developing world the promotion of the inclusion of children with visual impairment in local schools reflects a practical necessity and not a policy choice. For most of these children, the local school represents their only chance of receiving any education – all other considerations aside there are nowhere near enough places in specialist schools to cater for the huge numbers currently outside education.

To a child with no access to education, the debate about whether it is best provided in special or mainstream schools must seem like a nonsensical sideshow.

Children undergo inclusive schooling in a classroom in Sierra Leone.

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Sightsavers and eye health
Abubakarr stands in front of an ornate wooden door.
Sightsavers stories
Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Abubakarr’s story: “Being blind has made me a stronger person”

From begging on the streets of Sierra Leone to attending an inclusive school, Abubakarr is now realising his full potential and on the path to a bright future.

Mariana Rudge.
Sightsavers blog

Moving from intention to action is key to inclusive education for all

Following the Global Disability Summit, Sightsavers and the Global Partnership for Education share how world leaders can achieve quality schooling for children with disabilities.

Sightsavers, May 2025
Veronica Stapleton.
Sightsavers blog

To achieve quality education for all, disability inclusion is critical

At the CIES conference, there were many examples of innovative uses of digital technology, but strategies for reaching children with disabilities were rarely discussed.

Veronica Stapleton, April 2025