The Directorate of Gender Mentorship and Disability of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment following the successful completion of a Disability Inclusion Scorecard Assessment conducted by Light of the World, an international organization championing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The assessment, brought together university management, academic and administrative staff, students, and representatives from disability support structures to evaluate the institution’s progress in mainstreaming disability inclusion across its operations.
The Disability Inclusion Scorecard is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to measure how effectively institutions integrate disability inclusion in governance, policies, infrastructure, service delivery, communication, teaching and learning, and stakeholder engagement. The exercise also identifies strengths, existing gaps, and practical recommendations for continuous improvement.
Speaking during the assessment, the Director of the Directorate of Gender, Mentorship and Disability Dr. Moses Gichua underscored JKUAT’s commitment to ensuring that every learner, regardless of ability, has equal access to quality education and opportunities for academic and personal growth.
The Director further noted that disability inclusion is a shared responsibility that extends beyond compliance with legal requirements. He emphasized that creating an inclusive university culture requires deliberate policies, accessible infrastructure, responsive support services, and a mindset that values diversity.
“The assessment provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our progress, identify areas that require improvement, and develop practical strategies that will ensure no student or staff member is left behind,” said Dr. Gichua. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Light of the World as it assists us implement the recommendations from this assessment. Disability inclusion is a continuous journey, and we are pleased to welcome institutions that are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind,” he added.
On his part, the Disability Inclusion facilitator from Light of the World Kenya Mr. Wycliffe Osango, commended the University’s willingness to undertake a transparent and participatory assessment process, describing it as an important step toward strengthening institutional capacity for disability inclusion. He observed that universities play a critical role in shaping equitable societies by ensuring that higher education is accessible to all.
“Disability inclusion is not merely about providing ramps or assistive devices, it is about embedding inclusion into the culture, policies, systems, and everyday practices of an institution. We are encouraged by JKUAT’s openness to critically assess itself and identify areas where it can become even more inclusive,” said Mr. Osango. “Universities shape future leaders. When they embrace disability inclusion, they not only transform the lives of students with disabilities but also cultivate graduates who value diversity, equity, and human dignity in every sector of society,” he added.
Ms. Susan Kimani, the Deputy Finance Officer and one of the participants, who took part in the Disability Inclusion Scorecard Assessment, described the exercise as both enlightening and transformative. Adding that the interactive discussions encouraged departments to take collective responsibility for disability inclusion rather than viewing it as the sole mandate of the Directorate of Gender, Mentorship and Disability.
“This exercise has shown us that inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. Every department has a role to play in creating a campus where all students and staff feel valued, respected, and able to participate fully. I am leaving this assessment with renewed commitment to champion inclusive practices within my area of work,” said Ms. Kimani.
Throughout the exercise, participants assessed institutional policies, physical accessibility of facilities, availability of assistive services, inclusive teaching practices, communication systems, emergency preparedness, and participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
The assessment also provided a platform for students and staff with disabilities to share their experiences and propose practical solutions that would enhance accessibility and participation within the university community.
By embracing evidence-based assessments and collaborative partnerships, JKUAT continues to position itself as a forward-looking institution committed to excellence, equity, and equal opportunity. The partnership with Light of the World marks another significant milestone in the University’s journey toward becoming a model of disability-inclusive higher education, where every student and staff member can learn, work, and thrive without barriers.
