Inclusive Learning Environment for Students with Disabilities in Vietnam’s Higher Education: An Analysis of the Existing Policies and Legal Framework

Abstract

Abstract: Vietnam is one of the countries that have the highest number of persons with disabilities (PWDs). According to the 2009 Census, there were approximately 6.1 million PWDs, accounting for 7.8% of the Vietnamese population. Research has shown that the number of PWDs who attend higher education in Vietnam is extremely low and only 0.1% of PWDs have completed a bachelor program. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the status of PWDs in Vietnam as well as to analyze the country’s legal framework and policies governing PWDs. To this end, the paper firstly presents facts and figures regarding PWDs in Vietnam. Secondly, the paper reviews Vietnam’s commitments to international policies and standards, and the legal framework and policies on PWDs in general and students with disabilities (SWDs) in particular at the national level. Finally, the study points out some issues and challenges for Vietnam in creating a more inclusive learning environment for PWDs and SWDs at higher education.

Keywords: People with disabilities, students with disabilities, higher education in Vietnam, inclusive learning environment.

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