HED4810
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 9 JULY 2025
, Putting Inclusive Education into context
Question 1
Exclusion in Education Persists Despite the Adoption of Inclusive Policies
Introduction
Inclusive education is internationally recognized as a fundamental human right and a
critical factor in achieving equitable societies (UNESCO, 2020). Over the past two
decades, many countries have enacted inclusive education policies aimed at integrating
learners with diverse backgrounds, needs, and abilities into mainstream education
systems. However, despite policy advancements, exclusion in education remains
widespread. The persistence of exclusion is attributed to several systemic, institutional,
and socio-economic challenges. This essay explores five major barriers to inclusive
education: inadequate resources and infrastructure, insufficient teacher training, socio-
economic inequalities, rigid curriculum structures, and weak implementation and
monitoring of inclusive policies.
1. Inadequate Resources and Infrastructure
One of the foremost challenges impeding inclusive education is the lack of adequate
resources and infrastructure. Inclusive education requires physical accessibility,
learning materials adapted for diverse needs, assistive technologies, and sufficient
classroom space (UNICEF, 2021). In many low- and middle-income countries, schools
lack ramps, adapted toilets, or Braille materials, making it difficult for learners with
disabilities to participate fully in the education process (Donohue & Bornman, 2014).
Additionally, overcrowded classrooms and insufficient funding hinder the provision of
individualized support, further marginalizing vulnerable learners.
2. Insufficient Teacher Training and Support
Effective implementation of inclusive education relies heavily on the preparedness and
support of teachers. Unfortunately, many educators are not adequately trained to meet
the diverse needs of learners, especially those with disabilities or learning difficulties.
1|Page
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 9 JULY 2025
, Putting Inclusive Education into context
Question 1
Exclusion in Education Persists Despite the Adoption of Inclusive Policies
Introduction
Inclusive education is internationally recognized as a fundamental human right and a
critical factor in achieving equitable societies (UNESCO, 2020). Over the past two
decades, many countries have enacted inclusive education policies aimed at integrating
learners with diverse backgrounds, needs, and abilities into mainstream education
systems. However, despite policy advancements, exclusion in education remains
widespread. The persistence of exclusion is attributed to several systemic, institutional,
and socio-economic challenges. This essay explores five major barriers to inclusive
education: inadequate resources and infrastructure, insufficient teacher training, socio-
economic inequalities, rigid curriculum structures, and weak implementation and
monitoring of inclusive policies.
1. Inadequate Resources and Infrastructure
One of the foremost challenges impeding inclusive education is the lack of adequate
resources and infrastructure. Inclusive education requires physical accessibility,
learning materials adapted for diverse needs, assistive technologies, and sufficient
classroom space (UNICEF, 2021). In many low- and middle-income countries, schools
lack ramps, adapted toilets, or Braille materials, making it difficult for learners with
disabilities to participate fully in the education process (Donohue & Bornman, 2014).
Additionally, overcrowded classrooms and insufficient funding hinder the provision of
individualized support, further marginalizing vulnerable learners.
2. Insufficient Teacher Training and Support
Effective implementation of inclusive education relies heavily on the preparedness and
support of teachers. Unfortunately, many educators are not adequately trained to meet
the diverse needs of learners, especially those with disabilities or learning difficulties.
1|Page
