Barbados to host major disability conference in October

Barbados is preparing to welcome regional and international delegates for the second Caribbean Global Disability Conference from October 17 to 22 under the theme “Breaking Barriers: Advancing Inclusive Education for All Abilities”.

The gathering, organised by the Caribbean Disability Network (CDN) in collaboration with the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs and the Barbados Council for the Disabled, will bring hundreds of stakeholders to Bridgetown to develop a unified regional action plan to improve access to education for persons with disabilities.

It is expected to draw government officials, educators, researchers, disability advocates and civil society leaders from across the Caribbean and diaspora.

In a statement, President and Founder of CDN, Andrew Sharpe, said the conference will provide a timely platform for Caribbean countries to work together on common goals.

“We are thrilled to focus specifically on inclusive education as the foundation for true community inclusion,” he said. 

“This year’s conference will serve as a platform to inspire and elevate the Caribbean community towards achieving comprehensive educational equity for all abilities.”

The conference will culminate in the drafting of a Regional Declaration on Inclusive Education, which will serve as a blueprint for future legislation and institutional reform across the region.

Sessions over the six-day programme will tackle topics such as:

• Inclusive education policy and legislation
• Curriculum development and teacher training
• Assistive technology and innovative supports
• Social inclusion and intersectionality, especially where disability overlaps with poverty and gender

Local voices, including students, teachers, and disability advocates, are expected to play a key role in shaping the discussions and outcomes.

Officials believe that Barbados stands to benefit significantly from hosting the event, not only by raising awareness around local disability issues, but also by strengthening regional partnerships and attracting attention to its own initiatives aimed at inclusive learning.

In a region where small island states often grapple with limited resources and capacity, Sharpe said the goal is to develop a stronger Caribbean-wide network of advocates and policymakers committed to inclusive development.

“We’re not just having a conference, we’re building a movement,” he added.Expected outcomes include the regional declaration, policy recommendations, and the publication of knowledge materials to support the implementation of inclusive education practices throughout the Caribbean.

(SM)