BENEFITS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENTS IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN UGANDA

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefits of inclusive education on visually impaired students, in Ugandan public Universities.Methodology: The study adopted cross-sectional design involving 50 visually impaired students, 50 lecturers, 50 university administrators and 50 non-visually impaired students. Data was collected using questionnaires, and interview schedule.Results: The findings revealed that the visually impaired have benefits such as bursaries, disability allowance and tuition payment from government and non-government organizations, meals, accommodation, scholastic materials from universities, extra time given during examinations, oral examinations from lecturers and aiding in movement around campus from non-visually impaired students and their guides.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommends creating relevant government policies and regulations regarding the education of the visually impaired students; and proper and adequate training of academic and administrative staff from lower education to higher education level on issues that affect the teaching and learning of the disabled students as to help in the education of the visually impaired students.