Infrastructure accessibility in Nigerian campuses: evidence for policy and practice

• Main Authors: Abubakar, Ahmed, Adam, Mastura, A. Ghafar, Norafida
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.usm.my/35112/1/PPIK23.pdf; http://eprints.usm.my/35112/

Mobility barriers in Nigerian campuses are unmistakable and continued to affect the accessibility experience of persons with disabilities (PWD). Yet, an examination of disabling barriers for inclusive mobility of (PWD) has been largely absent. Previous studies of disablement processes have been infused with diverse socio-spatial overtones and undertones, but focused on medical rehabilitation rather than environmental modifications. This study sought to identify and examine the adequacy and usability of accessibility infrastructure in tertiary institutions offering special education in North West Nigeria, with a view to making recommendations to reduce if not overcome the identified problems at the policy and implementation levels. Participatory physical accessibility auditing conducted revealed a number of disabling barriers to PWD inclusive mobility. Findings highlight areas of concentrated disadvantages to include lack of adequate, accessible and usable infrastructure as guaranteed by the laws. Suggestions were drawn from the best practices for improving access and accessibility. Thus, the recommendations made have the potential of mitigating problems associated with inequality and disability in developing countries and widening participation in the global drive to achieve “education for all”.