Summary:
This white paper discusses Deaf Worlds (DDW)’s efforts over the past 11 years to improve inclusive education for Deaf children in the Philippines, Dominican Republic, China, and Nigeria. Despite the promotion of inclusive education, many Deaf students remain marginalized in mainstream settings that do not cater to their unique needs as sign language users with distinct cultural identities.
DDW aims to address these challenges by empowering Deaf communities, advocating for native sign languages, and promoting systemic changes for truly inclusive learning environments. The paper highlights DDW’s community-driven approach, focusing on local leadership and culturally responsive education. Through collaborations with local governments, Deaf organizations, and global partners, DDW has made significant strides in enhancing educational access and advocating for Deaf rights, offering valuable insights for developing supportive educational systems that enable Deaf students to thrive.
