A groundbreaking education program in Lebanon is earning praise for supporting children with disabilities—one of the country’s most marginalized groups.
UNICEF estimates there are around 300,000 children with disabilities in Lebanon, though accurate data remains scarce. To address their needs, the UN agency and Lebanese authorities launched a pilot project in 2018, establishing 30 inclusive public schools across all governorates.
Since then, the initiative has expanded significantly. Today, 117 schools nationwide provide inclusive education, ensuring more children can learn in supportive environments.
“Equal Right to Learning”
Amal El Jabali, an Education Officer at UNICEF Lebanon, emphasized the program’s mission. “Inclusion isn’t just about bringing children into schools—it’s about adapting schools to welcome them,” she told UN News. “Every child deserves an equal right to education and belonging.”
The program offers therapy services and assistive devices in participating schools, helping children with disabilities thrive academically and socially. By removing barriers, Lebanon is taking critical steps toward equitable education for all.
