Investing in Inclusion

Despite the significant increase in higher education access and participation globally, much remains to be done to ensure that the 1.3 billion people with disabilities benefit equitably from the promise of education. Globally, individuals with disabilities are more likely to be left out of education, at all levels, compared to their peers without disabilities. Private higher education institutions (HEIs), which enroll a third of higher education students globally, can play a catalytic role in advancing inclusive and equity in education, as underscored by Sustainable Development Goal 4.

This report provides guidance on disability inclusive education within HEIs, particularly in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). It offers a two-pronged approach: (i) actionable guidance for HEIs to strengthen disability inclusion and mental health within the student body and workforce; and (ii) opportunities for HEIs to utilize an abbreviated “maturity model” to assess initial progress toward disability inclusion and accessible learning environments.  Additionally, this report highlights cross-cutting themes including funding accessible educational technology (EdTech); gender; physical accommodations for accessibility in the classroom; supporting equal access and outcomes for persons with disabilities; and encouraging HEIs to hire and employ more people with disabilities.

Overall, this report emphasizes that disability inclusion is not just a social responsibility but also a significant economic and business opportunity for both HEIs and investors in LMICs.