Investigating the Mindset of Rural Residents on Inclusive Education in Sierra Leone a Case Study: Four Rural Towns in Sierra Leone
Abstract
This research investigates the evolving mindset regarding inclusive education in Sierra Leone. Despite education being a fundamental human right, millions of African children encounter obstacles to access quality and equitable education due to myths, religious beliefs, gender roles and economic conditions. This study aims to look at the extent of attitudinal shifts toward inclusive education in Sierra Leone. Using a mixed method approach that is, qualitative and quantitative, to produce the rich data needed from eighty participants(parents chiefs, CSOs, teachers learners) across four rural towns (Port Loko, Western Rural, Karene, and Falaba), this study reveals how inclusive education has positively transformed communities' mindset due to policy implementation, government commitment, and community engagement. The Sierra Leone National Policy on Radical Inclusion came into being in March 2021. The policy's main concern is the removal of all infrastructural and systemic policy and practice impediments that limit learning for any child. The policy particularly emphasizes the inclusion of historically marginalised groups: pregnant girls and parent learners, children with disabilities, children from rural and underserved areas, and children from low-income families. The policy ensures compliance with existing laws and regulations surrounding inclusion and provides a guideline for decision. There has been a positive transformation in community mindsets regarding inclusive education. Also, there is an increase in school enrollment, regular attendance among children with disabilities, girls, pregnant girls, and parent learners completing their education. Furthermore, regular public engagement/community engagement through media and community forum has created significant awareness on inclusive education. However; some community members remain resistant to change their mindset on inclusive education. This study underscores government funding, political will, national policy prioritization, town hall meetings and radio discussions in local dialects, community dialogues and enforcement of child rights legislation. This work requests for further investigation on the long term impact of inclusive education policies.
PCF11 Sub-Theme: Changing Mindsets for Inclusive Open Education
Paper ID: 8831
Subjects: Inclusive Education; Positive Transformation; Attitudinal Shift
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Date
2025-09-12
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Commonwealth of Learning (COL)