The aim of this handbook is to strengthen the practice of inclusive enrolment, teaching and learning processes as well as the provision of learner support services at every school.
In the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, learner support services are coordinated through the Learner Welfare, Psychological Services and Special Needs Education Department. Given that there are over 9000 Primary and Secondary schools in Zimbabwe, it is not feasible for the limited number of officials in that Department to visit and offer the required services at every learning institution on a regular basis. Therefore, this practical handbook is part of a package of measures to enhance the education sector performance in terms of equitable access to quality learning environments with inclusive pedagogical practices that benefit all learners.
Through the practical hints, referral guidelines and active learner support programmes that are coordinated by the Learner Welfare, Psychological Services and Special Needs Education Department of the Ministry, it is believed that all schools will be more effective at accommodating learner diversity thus reducing the proportion of school-aged learners who do not attend school.
This Handbook is aimed increasing the proportion of learners who are optimally benefiting from educational programmes at any point in time. Having all school-aged children equally accessing education is the foundation for the achievement of the competence-based curriculum objectives. Ultimately, this handbook is expected to strengthen the capacity of every school and individual teachers to translate the curriculum principles of inclusivity, equity, and gender sensitivity and learner centeredness, among others, into practical reality, thus ensuring a strong foundation for inclusive societies, in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Indeed, the education sector cannot afford to leave any learner behind!
