Ethiopia's Oromia Learners With Disabilities Face 'Double Burden'

Inclusive education In the Oromia region has been hampered by political instability - according to Hiywot Samuel's new research titled "Double Burden", which was conducted under the Werdwet Research Fellowship of the Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD).

The research which was released on June 23, 2023, covers how political instability in Oromia after 2018, affected inclusive education in five towns; Shashemene from West Arsi zone, Nekemte from East Wollega zone, Haramaya from East Hararghe zone, Bedele from Buno Bedele zone, and Ambo from West Shewa zone. Learners with disabilities attend general education with learners who are not disabled, without their unique requirements being satisfied. Classrooms and buildings are inaccessible to disabled learners and schools do not use alternative teaching methods, the research found.

Oromia is a regional state in Ethiopia and the homeland of the Oromo people. The June 29, 2020 assassination of Hachalu Hundessa - a singer and symbol of Oromo pride - triggered a bout of violent protests - the worst since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power in April 2018.

In June 2022, Amnesty International called for an investigation into the massacre of more than 400 Amhara civilians in the Oromia region.