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The Ministry of Education (MoE) has announced changes in the names of schools serving learners with disabilities.
In a circular dated October 7 2025, MOE directed learning institutions to discontinue the use of “Schools for the Mentally Handicapped” and instead adopt “Schools for Learners with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.”
According to Basic Education Principal Secretary Amb. Prof. Julius K Bitok, the move is part of the ongoing reforms to ensure the language used in schools upholds dignity, respect, and inclusivity for persons with disabilities.
“Language shapes perception. The words we use can either uplift or demean,” said Prof. Bitok. “This change reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that learners with disabilities are treated with respect and accorded the dignity they deserve.”
The directive affects learners with various forms of disabilities including hearing and visual Impairment, physical Impairment, intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Specific Learning Disabilities (dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia).
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Others are Cerebral Palsy, speech and Language Difficulties, Multiple Disabilities., Autism and Albinism.
According to MoE, the terminology “mentally handicapped” is demeaning and, consequently, contravenes Kenya’s constitutional, statutory, and international obligations.
Article 54 (1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya guarantees persons with disabilities the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be addressed in a manner that is not demeaning.
In addition, the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, Article 16, provides that every person with a disability has the right to human dignity and to be respected and protected from any language or description that may be demeaning, embarrassing, derogatory, or otherwise undermine their dignity.
Schools are expected to begin sensitization campaigns among staff, parents, and learners on respectful, person-first language. The institutions have until June 30, 2026, to fully comply with the directive.
