COVID-19 as a Barrier to Access for Learning by Persons With Disabilities in Higher Education: A Case of Kyambogo University, Uganda

Abstract

The outbreak of COVID-19 had negative effects on the education of persons with disabilities (PwDs). This chapter is based on qualitative data from document and literature review and discusses the barriers faced by PwDs as a result of COVID 19, using Kyambogo University, Uganda as a case study. Findings revealed that the barriers faced by PwDs during COVID-19 were attributed to inadequacies in policy implementation, limited or no learning opportunities, mobility, difficulties in following standard operating procedures (SOPs), lack of communication, isolation, negative attitudes, and limited access and utilization of information communication technology (ICT). Strategies that the university employed to address these barriers included skilling of staff and students, content development on COVID-19, non-discrimination, and enhancement of consultation and communication mechanisms. The conclusion drawn is that COVID-19 exacerbated barriers to learning that PWDs faced in institutions of higher learning and strategies to address them are still inadequate.