Eliminating discrimination and enhancing equality: a case for inclusive basic education rights of children with albinism in Africa

Abstract

Background: Various international treaties have acknowledged the rights of children to education; however, for millions of children, this right is just a dream, especially with a vulnerable group of children with physical challenges and other disabilities. Reports by the UN gives an estimate of a significantly large number of children who are yet to take advantage of good quality education. This article examines the plight of children with albinism who suffer discrimination both at the special and regular schools largely because the nature of their disability is not physical. Children with albinism have their right to education and in education limited by the difficulty to understand their impairment both at school and at home leading to entrenched discrimination and inequality, which ultimately erodes their human dignity. Methodology: This article adopts the desk research argues that the proper application of the concept of inclusive basic education of children with albinism will help eliminate discrimination and enhance equality of education of children with albinism. Conclusion: The article concludes that the existing legal framework abound, but proper implementation of article 24 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will enhance the desired equality.