Disability Inclusion in Action: From Climate to Education

​Disability inclusion is widely recognised as essential, yet many systems still fail to reach those who need them most. Children with intellectual, developmental, and neurological disabilities remain underserved across health and education systems, particularly in low and middle income countries. At the same time, inclusion is often missing from conversations on climate action, despite people with disabilities being disproportionately affected by climate impacts.

This discussion explores how inclusion can move from principle to practice across health, education, climate, and community life. From early identification and intervention, including hearing screening, to inclusive education and digital learning, to the role of sport in fostering participation and belonging, we will look at what it takes to build systems that truly include everyone.

Marking 20 years since the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, this session will reflect on progress made and the significant gaps that remain. It will also examine how disability justice must be central to climate solutions, and how inclusive approaches can strengthen resilience and equity. The session will create space for connection and collaboration, particularly between practitioners, advocates, and funders, to support locally grounded and scalable solutions.

​Speakers

• ​Anna Becker is Director of Institutional Funding at Sightsavers.

• ​Patricia Mativo is founder of Climclusive, a disability- and youth-led organisation focused on climate change, and a University of Oxford graduate in Environmental Change and Management.

• ​Satendra Singh is Director-Professor at University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, and a member of the Lancet Commission on Disability and Health, recognised with the WHO SEARO Public Health Champion Award.

• ​Steve Williams is Founder and CEO of Kyaninga Child Development Centre, leading inclusive rehabilitation and education initiatives in Uganda.

• ​Elizabeth Sidell is Head of Policy and Influencing at Deaf Child Worldwide, advancing global disability rights and early intervention systems.
  Discussion Questions

• ​Where are the biggest gaps in inclusion today, particularly for children with intellectual, developmental, and neurological disabilities, and how can they be addressed?

• ​What practical solutions, such as early screening, inclusive education, sport, and digital tools, are showing promise, and how can they be scaled?

• ​How can disability inclusion be meaningfully integrated into climate action and resilience efforts?

• ​What would it take to move from commitment to coordinated action across sectors, including stronger partnerships and funding?