Assessessment Of The Human Rights And Social Inclusion Of Students With Disabilities In University Of Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the human rights and social inclusion of students with disabilities at the University of Jos and how factors such as inadequate infrastructures, poor policy implementation, and negative attitudes, further exacerbated by a lack of tailored support services at the University of Jos, Nigeria, hinder the rights and inclusion of students with disabilities hence, affecting their educational and economic outcomes. Grounded in the social model of disability, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), Nigeria’s Disability Rights Act (2018), and inclusive education policies, the research used a cross-sectional survey design, surveying 112 students with disabilities in the Department of Special Education via open- and closed-ended questionnaires. Findings revealed that, although institutional frameworks for inclusive education exist within the university, implementation remains inadequate. Major challenges identified include inaccessible infrastructure, insufficient specialized teaching staff, attitudinal barriers, and weak enforcement of inclusive education policies. These gaps limit the full participation of students with disabilities in academic and social life. The study concludes that human rights protection and social inclusion are vital strategies for alleviating poverty among students with disabilities, hence, those who experienced stronger institutional support and greater inclusion reported improved academic performance and reduced financial hardship. Based on these findings, the study recommends comprehensive reforms, including attitudinal change, strengthened policy implementation, increased funding for disability services, continuous sensitization of the university community, and systematic monitoring and evaluation of students’ experiences. These measures are essential for creating a more inclusive, equitable, and empowering university environment that enables students with disabilities to thrive academically and economically.