By: Mpho Shelile
MASERU
Climate change is an undeniable reality that demands urgent action. For students living with disabilities, the stakes are even higher.
At the recent National Dialogue on Disaster Risk Reduction, organised by the Disaster Management Authority (DMA), the conversation during the Youth Dialog unveiled a stark reality that climate change not only threatens food security but also severely impacts the lives of students living with disabilities due to inadequate supportive infrastructure.
Students living with disabilities face numerous challenges worsened by the effects of climate change. These students often rely on specialised infrastructure and resources that are susceptible to damage from extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall. When such infrastructure is compromised, their access to education, mobility, and essential services is significantly hindered.
During the dialogue, Youth Parliament World Vision highlighted the critical lack of adaptive infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change. “Schools and educational institutions often lack ramps, accessible classrooms, and emergency evacuation plans tailored for students with disabilities. This oversight not only endangers their safety but also disrupts their educational progress and overall well-being.”
They also addressed the hazardous conditions faced, particularly in worn-out classrooms that become unsafe during extreme weather events. They called for safe and conducive learning environments that uphold the right to education, emphasising that a secure education system is essential for Lesotho’s future.
Additionally, they highlighted the lack of early warning systems tailored to children, stressing the need for inclusive disaster risk communication to ensure young people receive the information necessary to stay safe during emergencies.
“Children should be included in the design of national and local disaster risk reduction strategies. Their inclusion not only ensures that their unique needs and vulnerabilities are addressed, but also recognises their potential as active contributors to disaster preparedness and recovery efforts,” said Patience Masupha, Youth Parliamentarian.
World Vision Lesotho National Director, Mr. James Chifwelu, emphasised the urgent need to strengthen resilience and ensure that children’s voices are heard in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). “Lesotho faces increasing disaster risks, and we must act now to protect the most vulnerable, especially children. A collective effort is key to strengthening community resilience.”
It was suggested that the government and other stakeholders have an important role to play in mitigating these challenges. Some key actions that can be taken include investing in resilient and inclusive infrastructure and this includes constructing and retrofitting schools with ramps, accessible restrooms, and emergency evacuation routes that cater to students with disabilities, especially in the outskirt villages of Lesotho.
Development of comprehensive disaster preparedness and response plans that specifically address the needs of students with disabilities should be integrated into school safety protocols and regularly practiced.
Engaging with local communities and organisations representing people with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard in climate adaptation strategies can lead to more effective and inclusive solutions.
Allocating dedicated funding and resources to support inclusive education and infrastructure projects. This includes training for educators and staff on how to assist students with disabilities during emergencies.
Enforcing policies that mandate the inclusion of disability considerations in all climate change and disaster risk reduction initiatives. This ensures that the needs of students with disabilities are not overlooked.
Awareness campaigns are crucial in highlighting the intersection of disability rights and climate change. “By educating the public, policymakers, and stakeholders about the specific vulnerabilities of students with disabilities, we can foster a more inclusive and resilient society.”
It is imperative that the government, educational institutions, and communities come together to create an environment where every student, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. By investing in inclusive infrastructure and policies, we can ensure that no student is left behind in the face of climate change.