Access to education for children with disabilities remains a significant issue in Fiji, as many public schools are reportedly refusing admission due to insufficient resources and specialized support. Although legal frameworks advocate for inclusivity, challenges such as physical barriers, societal stigma, and a lack of dedicated programs still prevent many children with disabilities from fully participating in the education system.
Today, the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (HRADC) has initiated a baseline study aimed at assessing the rights and specific needs of these children throughout the country. This comprehensive research will span a year and will focus on vital areas such as education, healthcare, and access to essential services, collecting data that will serve to inform future government policies.
Commissioner Veena Singh highlighted a concerning statistic that children with disabilities are three times more likely to have never attended school in comparison to their peers. She stressed the necessity for solutions to address these disparities, acknowledging that despite Fiji’s progress in policy development, there remains a gap in comprehending how these measures effectively impact the lives of children with disabilities.
Fiji has aligned its national policies with international standards, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The enactment of the 2018 Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act further solidified these commitments, resulting in the establishment of the National Council of People with Disabilities. However, Singh underscored that existing research has mostly concentrated on general children’s rights, pointing out the lack of insights into how different factors, such as type of disability, gender, socioeconomic status, and geographical location, influence access to education and services.
In recent analyses, including the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, it was found that 8.8 percent of children aged two to 17 struggle with functioning in at least one domain, highlighting the pressing need for improved data collection regarding children with disabilities. Advocacy from groups like the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation has been pivotal in promoting policies aimed at greater inclusion.
The baseline study also aims to identify challenges while documenting success stories that would help reduce stigma and empower communities, showcasing effective inclusion strategies. HRADC Chair Pravesh Sharma elaborated on the Commission’s wider mandate that includes education about human rights, advocacy, and legislative reviews, ensuring that Fiji adheres to its commitments under international human rights treaties.
The results of this critical study are anticipated to guide future policies, ensuring that children with disabilities in Fiji gain equal opportunities for education and vital services.
This ongoing commitment to inclusivity and advocacy represents a hopeful step towards ensuring that all children, regardless of their abilities, can thrive within the education system and beyond, leading to a more equitable society.
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