The board of Child Support Tanzania (CST), a non-governmental organization committed to the welfare of children with disabilities, has launched strategic initiatives aimed at expanding inclusive education and community engagement.
The move seeks to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to quality education.
The announcement came on September 9, 2025, during a dialogue on inclusive education and gender equality in Mbeya.
The forum brought together parents, guardians, teachers, children with and without disabilities, education officers, and representatives from the Gender and Children’s Desk.
CST board chairperson and Dream FM Radio Director, Eng. Jameson Kasati, highlighted that the organization is committed to removing barriers that prevent children with disabilities from accessing education.
Eng. Kasati said communities still face deep-seated stereotypes. Certain subjects and technologies are often wrongly perceived as suitable only for specific genders or abilities.
CST’s approach now involves partnering with government authorities to improve infrastructure and reach more children through multiple educational channels.
The board is also working to raise awareness and shift negative perceptions toward children with disabilities, emphasizing that disability is not a curse but a natural condition.
One of the critical challenges to inclusive education is outdated school infrastructure that does not accommodate children with special needs.
Eng. Kasati called on the government to ensure that all new educational facilities are designed for inclusivity, while older schools are renovated to be accessible to every child.
Students themselves also echoed the need for change. Bilievi Mwaisela, a Form One student at Iyunga Secondary School living with a disability, noted that stigma and discrimination remain prevalent, with some families attributing disability to superstitions.
Despite these challenges, Bilievi has pursued her education with determination, encouraging other children with disabilities to remain resilient and committed to their studies.
Law enforcement officials also emphasized the role of society in supporting children with disabilities. SGT Consolata Mng’ong’o from the Gender and Children’s Desk at the Mbeya Regional Police Office noted that children with disabilities are often hidden due to stigma.
She urged communities to work closely with authorities to ensure these children are integrated into society.
She further highlighted the shortage of schools with teachers trained in special needs education and called on the government to expand training programs so that every school can accommodate all learners.
CST’s initiatives reflect a growing recognition in Tanzania that inclusive education is essential for national development.
By addressing infrastructure gaps, challenging societal stereotypes, and building community awareness, CST aims to create an environment where children with disabilities can thrive academically and socially.
The organization’s work also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between civil society, government agencies, and communities to ensure no child is left behind.
Inclusive education is more than a policy goal; it is a societal imperative. CST’s strategies offer a roadmap for Tanzania to bridge educational disparities and empower children with disabilities to reach their full potential, contributing meaningfully to the country’s future.