FROM MLEMI ALPHONCE IN SIMANJIRO
Hundreds of children with disabilities in Simanjiro District, Manyara Region, grow up without access to learning as barriers continue to keep them out of classrooms.
A recent study by World Vision Tanzania shows that out of 488 children identified in the district, only 186 were enrolled in schools, representing just 38 per cent.
The findings, based on a research conducted across 11 villages between September and October, last year, reveal that about 62 per cent of children with disabilities remained out of school.
The study found that the children experience a range of disabilities, including hearing, speech and mobility impairments.
World Vision Tanzania’s Gender and Disability Coordinator, Mr Godfrey Kisembo, said several barriers continued to hinder enrolment. These included long distances between homes and schools, stigma and social exclusion, a shortage of specialised teachers and inadequate inclusive infrastructure such as the absence of accessible pathways.
Simanjiro District Commissioner (DC), Mr Faki Lulandala, commended World Vision Tanzania for their contribution to improving social services in the area, noting that such efforts were vital for addressing community challenges.
The DC emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between the government and development partners to enhance service delivery and ensure citizens accessed quality education and other essential services.
Mr Lulandala also urged the organisation to expand its intervention to other wards in the district to support livelihoods further and strengthen ongoing development efforts.
