Luanda: Angola currently boasts 1,644 inclusive schools, ensuring access to education for students with or without disabilities while promoting diversity and equality, as announced by Janice de Oliveira Neves, the Director-General of the National Institute of Special Education (INEE), in Luanda.
According to Angola Press News Agency, in a statement made during International Education Day, which is observed on January 24, Neves revealed that among these inclusive schools, 22 are special schools and 298 feature multifunctional resource rooms. She emphasized that students with special educational needs benefit from both inclusive and special schools, supported by these resource rooms. The Angolan Government has invested in training teachers and school managers to meet the demands of school inclusion effectively.
Neves further explained that Angola's education policy is focused on inclusion, and therefore, the country does not have schools exclusively for students with autism. The government is also prioritizing training and capacity-building policies to enhance the quality of special education in Angola.
Students at the Mutu Ya Kevela Teacher Training College have expressed positive views about the relationship between students with special needs and their teachers. Osvaldo Mois©s Gonga, a student, noted the understanding and commitment shown by most teachers in fostering an inclusive environment. Another student, Jonathan Dias Ant³nio, emphasized the importance of education in social inclusion and appreciated educators' roles in shaping society. He called for greater investment in adaptive teaching and technological materials for special education.
Joyce Andr©, also a student, highlighted the educator's role not just as a knowledge transmitter but as a guide in students' social and emotional development. She emphasized the need to recognize educators' dedication, especially in challenging contexts, and their critical role in developing responsible citizens.
Teacher Jºlio Alberto acknowledged advancements in the education sector, such as expanding the school network and investing in infrastructure. He advocates for more effective public policies, continuous professional training, salary improvements, and greater investment in educational technologies. Similarly, teacher Garcia Teca remarked on the positive evolution of Angolan education, aligning it more with global scientific and technological developments.
Currently, in the 2025/2026 school term, more than 9.6 million students are enrolled in the general education system, with 126,204 classrooms and 208,488 teachers available. International Education Day, established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 73/25 on December 3, 2018, is celebrated annually to emphasize education's role in sustainable development and social progress.
