Special Education in Zambia at Fifty Years and Beyond: History, Current Status and Future Prospects

Abstract

This chapter examines the development of special education in Zambia as the country celebrated fifty years of independence. It traces its history through the philanthropic efforts of the missionaries that settled in the Eastern Province and analyses education policies since independence with a focus on special education. Using document study, the chapter analyses the achievements of the Ministry of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Childhood Education in the area of special education. It identifies categories of disabilities which have not received adequate attention in terms of special education and the negative consequences of standardised assessments. Finally, recommendations are made for safeguards to ensure that assessment is carried out in a fair and non-discriminatory manner and that the goal of universal access to education by 2030 is achieved.