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Urunana DC actors performing live on stage at UR Rukara Campus

The University of Rwanda (UR) Rukara Campus, in collaboration with Youth Impact Hub and Urunana DC actors, marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with an inspiring event focused on promoting inclusion and raising awareness for the rights of children with disabilities. The celebration featured captivating performances by Urunana DC together with the "Troup des Personnes Handicapées Twuzuzanye" (THT), and the Rukara Campus Students Club, members of Youth Impact Hub, all centered around the theme "Disability is not Inability."

The event attracted a large number of participants

Salomon Nshimiyimana, UR Campus Administrator, spoke on behalf of the college management, reaffirming the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment. In his opening remarks, Nshimiyimana highlighted several key achievements of the University in supporting students with disabilities. He pointed to the increasing enrollment of students with disabilities across UR campuses and emphasized the University’s efforts to provide both academic and social assistance to ensure an accessible and supportive learning environment.

Mr.Salomon Nshimiyimana, the UR Campus Administraror,reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment

Nshimiyimana also highlighted the outreach activities of the College of Education, particularly through the School of Inclusive and Special Needs Education. This School has implemented a comprehensive program designed to support families of children with disabilities in surrounding areas and beyond. These outreach activities extend beyond the Resource Center, offering essential services such as assessments and early interventions for children with disabilities. While children benefit from these specialized services, their parents actively participate in income-generating activities like handcraft and knitting production through the Ubwiza Association.

In addition, the School has supported the Ubwiza Association with the provision of essential crafting equipment and has launched a sustainable pig project to help empower participating families economically. This holistic approach promotes not only inclusive education but also strengthens the socio-economic well-being of families impacted by disabilities.

The Youth Impact Hub team, alongside other disability advocates, led discussions on advancing the rights of children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of breaking down societal barriers and fostering a culture of respect. Mr. Twizerimana David, Legal Representative of the local NGO THT, delivered a thought-provoking session focused on challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusion. He urged participants to actively support persons with disabilities, stressing the importance of respect and inclusion in all aspects of society.

Mr.David Twizerimana delivered a thought-provokating session to his audience

The celebration reaffirmed UR’s leadership in disability inclusion, showcasing its ongoing efforts to create a society that respects and upholds the rights of all individuals. Through this event, the collective power of community-driven initiatives was demonstrated, highlighting the shared commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

Story by

NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
Public Relations &Community Engagement Officer
UR-College of Education