Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The United Nation's Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was opened for signature on March, 30 2007. This Convention recognizes and validates the rights and freedoms of all people with various disabilities. The Convention is rooted within eight guiding principles. Of particular interest to early childhood care and development is the principle stipulating "Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities". Furthermore, Articles 7, 23, and 24 of the Convention declare equal rights, educational equity, and protection for children with disabilities.

Related Research

Inclusive Education in Guyana: Perspectives of Policy Makers, Teachers, and Parents of Children with Special Needs  (Ajodhia-Andrews, A. D., October 2007). 

This study examines inclusive education within Guyana for children with special needs (0-8 years), from the perspectives of policy makers, teachers, and parents of children with special needs. The study is framed within a constructivist perspective, and uses a grounded theory design and analysis. Findings indicate four factors which are potential barriers to implementing inclusive education in Guyana: attitudes/perceptions toward those with special needs, change agents, resources, and experiences with children with special needs. This study describes the interrelating relationships among the core phenomenon (i.e., attitudes toward those with special needs), and the other conditions (i.e., change agents, resources, and experiences with children with special needs). The interrelationship between these factors stimulates strategies or actions. These lead to consequences which prevent sustainable and successful inclusive education with Guyana. There is a discussion of recommendations and conclusions which may assist in supporting inclusive education within Guyana.