The Centre for Development Studies Africa (CDS Africa) is calling on the government and all stakeholders to take urgent action to recognise and support carers of children with developmental disabilities through the effective implementation of Ghana’s inclusive education policy.
This follows a two-year research project conducted by CDS Africa, with funding support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), which shows that unpaid care work in Ghana, particularly for children with developmental disabilities remains largely invisible and unsupported.
Speaking at a policy dialogue on unpaid care work organised by CDS Africa in partnership with the Centre for Learning on Disability and Development (CLCD) and Songtaba, the Director of Research at CDS Africa, Dr. Abena Boateng, emphasised the need for practical and realistic steps towards implementation.
“We want to start small. We know we are a developing country and we do not have a lot of resources, but we must begin the dialogue and work together to make inclusive education implementable in our public schools,” she said.
She stated that the research highlights the severe burden placed on carers, many of whom are unable to engage in economic activities due to their responsibilities.
“Most carers of children with developmental disabilities are unable to work or do anything for themselves. Their whole lives revolve around the child and there is no respite for them,” she said.
Calling for collective action, Dr. Boateng appealed directly to key state institutions and stakeholders to take ownership of the process.
“I am appealing to the Minister of Education, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, and all stakeholders to come together and begin this dialogue,” she said.
She stated that the dialogue proposed an action framework known as ARISE, which stands for Advocacy, Reform, Inclusion, Support and Empowerment.
The framework outlines key steps to guide national efforts towards building an inclusive society, ensuring carers of children with developmental disabilities receive recognition, support, and opportunities to thrive.
CDS Africa is a think tank dedicated to strengthening democratic governance, social inclusion, and sustainable development.
This year’s dialogue was held under the theme: “Promoting Recognition for Unpaid Care Work for Carers of Children with Developmental Disabilities in Ghana.”
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