New digital platform targets learners living with disabilities

The platform, launched by Uptyke Education in collaboration with iHub and the Mastercard Foundation Ed Tech Fellowship is designed to cater to diverse disabilities including deafness, visual impairment, autism, and intellectual challenges.

Aligned with Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), the platform provides interactive and tailored content in English and Swahili, accessible both online and offline. This ensures that even learners in remote areas can access high-quality, inclusive educational resources.

Lilian Mutegi, CEO of Uptyke Education said the initiative seeks to address gaps in STEM education for learners with special needs, empowering them with tools for global competitiveness.

“This platform is a game-changer for learners with disabilities who deserve access to relatable and engaging digital content,” said Mutegi

The platform leverages Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create accessible resources such as videos, experiments, and customized assessments. It was developed in response to a growing demand for differentiated digital learning experiences for students with disabilities.

Sheila Lutta, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Education, Special Needs Education, hailed the initiative as a vital step in advancing inclusive education. 

“The government is committed to ensuring that learners with disabilities have access to equitable education, in line with SDG Goal 4,” she stated.

 Efforts by the government include teacher training, infrastructure improvements, and early education assessments to enhance inclusivity.

Fred Owako, National Chairman of the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK), called for greater collaboration to support such programs.

 “Organizations must step up to ensure learners with disabilities have access to tools and resources that make education possible,” said Owako