Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) commemorated International Wheelchair Day with a ceremony at the Wheelchair Learning and Service Centre.

The day, globally recognized is celebrated every year on 1^st March to raise awareness, honors the resilience of wheelchair users, and promote inclusivity within communities.

The celebration included a walk led by students from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences undertaking degree courses in Medical Social Work, Physiotherapy, and Occupational Therapy programs, demonstrating solidarity with wheelchair users and promoting awareness, inclusivity and accessibility.

During the commemoration, the second cohort of 30 students were also awarded certificates as Certified Basic Level Providers by the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP) following an online course they undertook earlier in the year. In February 2025, 71 students went through the process and were certified.

This recognition is a confirmation that they have successfully met the required standards of practice and are officially certified to deliver basic wheelchair services for people with mobility impairments.

While presenting the certificates, Dr. Mwangi Matheri, Head of the Wheelchair Learning and Service Centre, reflected on the vital role of wheelchairs in enabling mobility and participation. He noted that wheelchairs are essential tools that allow individuals to live fully and independently.

He further said wheelchair training is part of the syllabus, and the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of movement in meeting everyday needs. He emphasized that people using wheelchairs can participate in active daily life without feeling disadvantaged, based on his own experience.

“In 2014, I had to rely on a wheelchair after breaking my spinal cord. That experience taught me the importance of rehabilitation and the need to raise the voices of those with mobility challenges,” said Dr. Matheri.

“Wheelchairs are not just about mobility but about dignity and inclusion, allowing individuals to take part in education, work, and community life,” Dr. Matheri added.

Giving a practical case of utilization of the wheelchair, Dr Matheri said, “The wheelchair has enabled Mr. Timothy Bett, a lecturer at JKUAT from the Department of Business Administration, to maneuver to the Centre without struggling.”

Mr. Timothy Bett, a wheelchair user, challenged perceptions about mobility and disability. He said, the wheelchair should not be seen merely as a medical device but as an enabler of independence. He stressed that the celebration raises awareness about the need for accessible buildings, which also eases the work of caregivers and physiotherapists.

Mr. Bett emphasized on the need for training centres to teach communities on how to assist persons with disabilities, while reminding the public that respect and caution are vital when offering help. The day, he added, also honors caregivers, giving them confidence and reinforcing their commitment to service.

“The wheelchair is not a device but an enabler to help people move. This event creates awareness for those using wheelchairs to have accessible classes and buildings, therefore making them independent. I urge the public to always ask wheelchair users before you assist or push them since they might be in pain, and to be cautious, said Mr. Bett.

The International Wheelchair Day celebration at JKUAT, also included members of staff from the Extension Services and Community Outreach, a coordinated effort demonstrating the university’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, while also aligning with global disability rights efforts.