Livingstonia Synod Empowers Journalists to Champion Inclusive Education
The project aims to address the gaps in education for learners with disabilities and promote inclusive practices across the country.
Nkhata Bay, Malawi - The Livingstonia Synod's Education Department has organised a training workshop for Nkhata Bay-based journalists to enhance their capacity to effectively report on issues related to inclusive education, writes Rabecca Kaunda.
The workshop, held under the project "Promoting Equal Access to Education in Malawi (PEATEMA)," aims to equip journalists with the necessary knowledge and skills to promote equal educational opportunities for all, particularly for learners with disabilities.
"Through this training, we hope to empower journalists to disseminate information that challenges misconceptions and promotes inclusive education effectively practises," stated Atupele Nampota, project manager for PEATEMA.
Nampota emphasized the crucial role of the media in raising awareness and advocating for inclusive education initiatives.
"Journalists play a vital role in shaping public understanding and influencing policy decisions," she remarked.
The workshop covered topics such as understanding inclusive education principles, identifying barriers to inclusive education, and reporting on inclusive education practises.
Participants gained insights into the challenges faced by learners with disabilities and the strategies that can be implemented to ensure their full participation in the education system.
One of the workshop participants, Aliston Kalagho, expressed his commitment to using his platform to advocate for inclusive education.
"I am determined to expose the misconceptions that hinder children with disabilities from receiving quality education," he asserted.
Kalagho also called for increased support for community radios to broadcast programs that promote inclusive education messages.
"Community radios have a wide reach and can effectively engage communities in discussions about inclusive education," he explained.
The PEATEMA project is funded by the Scottish Government through Sense Scotland and has already reached 13 zones in Malawi, with five schools selected from each zone.
The project aims to address the gaps in education for learners with disabilities and promote inclusive practices across the country.
By empowering journalists to become champions of inclusive education, the Livingstonia Synod's Education Department is taking a significant step towards ensuring that all learners in Malawi have equal access to quality education.