We offer inter and transdisciplinary educational programmes on sustainable, disability-inclusive development, grounded in the importance of African knowledge systems and African contexts. Through Disability Studies, we teach and supervise postgraduate diplomas, master’s, and doctoral studies across a range of professional disciplines and programmes.

Our postgraduate students come from countries across the African continent, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to their learning and research. By integrating theory, research, and their in-depth understanding of local contexts, students contribute to innovative thinking and disability-inclusive practices across multiple sectors.

Through this work, we continue to build a growing body of knowledge on inclusive practices and policies in Africa, by Africans and for Africa, while strengthening local and international networks of researchers, practitioners, and advocates working towards inclusion.

“I completed both my M.Phil. and Ph.D. in Disability Studies. The programmes help students recognise the importance of including persons with disabilities in all aspects of community life, while encouraging critical thinking around how perceptions can be changed and inclusive strategies developed.

I am also a quadriplegic, paralysed from the shoulders down. Despite my qualifications, I have experienced challenges accessing regular employment. Through my work as a lecturer, I have seen how powerful it is when persons with disabilities teach and engage directly with students. It helps challenge misconceptions and reduces the ‘fear of the unknown’ surrounding disability.

This is an important starting point, but what is truly needed is the inclusion of disability within the training curricula of all professions.”

— Dr Vic McKinney