International Consultancy for Enhancing Teaching and Learning Practices in the inclusive schools

Azerbaijan implemented the State Programme on Inclusive Education for 2018-2024, which promoted the inclusion of more children with disabilities into mainstream education. However, the progress has been slow with only 1.5% of schools becoming inclusive by 2024, with limited accessible infrastructure and adaptive technologies, a limited number of trained professionals, and lack of strong child-centred teaching methods. 

In response to this critical issue, the Government of Azerbaijan, in collaboration with UNICEF, has been working to develop inclusive education in the national Education Sector led by the Ministry of Science and Education (MoSE). In 2018-2020 UNICEF and MoSE delivered a programme on expanding inclusive education in Azerbaijan that achieved a tangible impact on the national teacher training systems and schools ensuring teachers, schools and communities are better prepared for expansion of the inclusive education. Over 10,000 primary school teachers were trained on inclusive education, and 6 teacher training universities already introduced the new Inclusive Education teacher training programme in their curriculum.

By 2024, this collaboration further led to the establishment of inclusive practices in 67 schools across 22 regions, marking notable progress toward fulfilling Azerbaijan’s obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 on inclusive and equitable quality education.

Strengthening inclusive education is essential for promoting the holistic development of all children, building more equitable educational systems, and supporting Azerbaijan's continued efforts to uphold its international commitments. This commitment aligns with international best practices, which emphasize the transformative impact of inclusive environments in reducing inequalities and fostering the full participation of children with disabilities in society. 

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Deadline: 11 March 2025/ 18:00