The Ministry of Education and Training is continuing efforts to strengthen inclusive education across Vanuatu.

This week, a photo exhibition was held at Alliance Française de Port-Vila in Port Vila, aimed at raising awareness about inclusion within the education sector.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry and UNICEF, focusing on ending discrimination in classrooms against children living with disabilities.

Director of Education Services, Nanise Lapi, said the event sends a strong message that every child has the right to education.

“This event is a powerful reminder that every child, without exception, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and fully participate in society. Inclusive education is not just a principle we believe in, but a commitment that the Ministry of Education and Training continues to uphold,” she said.

A teacher who has experience teaching a child with a disability shared that inclusive education can only succeed when teachers are given the right support.

“Inclusive education can only succeed when teachers have the support they need to reach every learner. This includes accessible and simple teaching materials for children with disabilities, clear and practical guidance from the curriculum, and training that helps teachers adapt lessons for different learning needs,” the teacher said.

Director Lapi highlighted that the Ministry has made significant progress in ensuring all children, regardless of ability, have access to education.

Key achievements include teacher training in inclusive education practices, construction of an Inclusive Education Resource Centre, introduction of Individual Education Plans in schools, and the expansion of programs supporting communities.

Inclusive education remains a priority for Government, with ongoing efforts to ensure that schools and education programs nationwide are accessible and supportive for every child.