The Learning and Inclusion for Transformation (LIFT) Programme

Overview

Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the Learning and Inclusion for Transformation (LIFT) Project, implemented by Mott MacDonald/Cambridge Education in partnership with AccessEnable and other local organizations, is a pioneering initiative advancing inclusion across Rwanda’s education and livelihood systems. During the pilot phase, AccessEnable is working in Gasabo, Gisagara, and Gakenke Districts, focusing on ensuring that Out-of-School Children and Youth with Disabilities (OOSCY) are identified, supported, and meaningfully included in education, entrepreneurship, employment, and social protection programs.

AccessEnable’s approach is practical, systemic, and inclusive. The project strengthens inclusive education systems, enhances the capacity of teachers and employers, and creates sustainable pathways for learners and youth with disabilities to thrive. Through close collaboration with government institutions, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and community partners, LIFT promotes equitable access to learning, work, and dignity for every child and young person.

1. Inclusive Education and Learning

At the heart of LIFT is a strong commitment to inclusive, quality education for all learners. As the project’s disability-specialist organization, AccessEnable brings extensive expertise, practical experience, and proven resources to design and implement activities that ensure learners with disabilities are not left behind.

Key activities include:

• In collaboration with district teams, AccessEnable identifies learners with disabilities using validated national tools such as the Washington Group Short Set of questions. Identified learners are referred for appropriate assessments and support services.

• Schools undergo comprehensive accessibility audits and are supported to establish Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs) within the school system. Each school develops a tailored improvement and adaptation plan to ensure sustainable inclusion of learners with disabilities.

• Teachers and school leaders receive practical training in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive teaching methodologies. Simplified UDL manuals and Teaching and Learning Resources (TLRs) are distributed to strengthen classroom inclusion and improve learning outcomes.

• Every learner with a disability returning to school has an IEP co-developed by teachers, families, and MDTs to monitor progress and provide personalized support.
  
  

These school-based efforts are complemented by community-led safe learning hubs spaces where learners, parents, and mentors connect to share experiences, build confidence, and reinforce inclusion. In addition, through radio programs, storytelling, and theatre, AccessEnable promotes positive social norms and community engagement around disability rights and inclusive education.

2. Strengthening Communities

In addition to school interventions, AccessEnable empowers schools and communities to own and sustain inclusive practices, working with parents, specialized schools, disability focused community based groups, health centers, rehabilitation centers / services' providers and community hubs 

• Through Umuganda and Umugoroba w’Ababyeyi platforms, communities engage in open discussions on disability inclusion. Real-life success stories are featured in local media to shift perceptions and inspire change.

• Recognizing the role of families, LIFT also helps parents of OOSCY enroll in Imibereho Social Registry and access social protection benefits, such as community health insurance and rehabilitation services. These efforts ensure that families are not left behind as children and youth enter education and employment pathways.

3. Empowering Youth and Families through Economic Inclusion

AccessEnable recognizes that education alone is not enough, especially since many children with disabilities face barriers that prevent them from enrolling in school. As they grow older, they often perceive themselves as unsuitable or too late to return to school. Through the LIFT project, AccessEnable will support consortium members to equip young people with disabilities with the tools, skills, and confidence needed to build sustainable livelihoods and reclaim their right to participate fully in society.

• Youth with disabilities receive interactive and accessible training through a gender-responsive entrepreneurship curriculum.

• Through employer mapping, job fairs, and workplace accessibility audits, the LIFT project connects participants to decent and dignified employment opportunities. Employers also receive training on reasonable accommodation and inclusive hiring practices to ensure sustainable inclusion in the workforce.

4. Learning, Adaptation, and Impact

AccessEnable applies a Test–Learn–Adapt (TLA) model to ensure that LIFT remains responsive and evidence-driven. Continuous data collection and reflection sessions capture learning in real time. Findings are used to refine tools, curricula, and approaches for greater impact. Success is measured through:

• Increased school enrolment and retention of children with disabilities.

• Enhanced teacher capacity in inclusive education.

• Improved accessibility of schools and workplaces.

• Growth in youth-led enterprises and employment.

• Stronger community attitudes toward inclusion.