Provide Facilities for Children with Limb Deformities

Every child, including those with disabilities, has the fundamental right to elementary education and training, enabling them to develop their maximum potential and become self-reliant.

Unfortunately, despite provisions in the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715), children with limb deformities are often denied admission to schools due to their physical conditions, even when they show eagerness and capability to learn.

Limb deformities refer to abnormalities related to the growth and development of the arms or legs. As a result, parents of affected children are advocating for an increase in trained teachers and the provision of facilities in schools to accommodate these learners.

A parent shared with The Spectator that his daughter is highly talented but is being denied admission due to her disability. He also noted the difficulties in accessing health care for children with limb deformities. Another parent highlighted the emotional toll, stating that children are often teased or mocked by peers, leading to psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, over 90% of children with disabilities in low-income countries do not attend school.

The concerns of parents are backed by Ghanaian law, including the 1992 Constitution, the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560), and the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715). These laws guarantee children with disabilities the right to education, non-discrimination, dignity, social participation, special care, and protection from exploitation and abuse.

Despite these legal protections, implementation gaps due to inadequate monitoring and enforcement continue to deny many children access to education.

Many children can benefit from simple accommodations and modifications in schools, while others may require specialized, individualized support from special education professionals to help them learn and thrive.

Parents play a pivotal role as primary caregivers and advocates, supporting their children’s independence, encouraging mobility, and assisting with practical tasks.

It is also crucial for the government to provide social support by establishing more specialized orthopedic hospitals across the country to ease the burden on parents.

Addressing these barriers ensures that children with disabilities can participate in education and develop holistically, fulfilling their potential while contributing meaningfully to society.

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