Review on Health Needs of Learners With Special Needs (Lsn) in Sub–Saharan Africa: Implications in Achieving the Millennium Development Goals

Eskay; M. (Ph.D.); Ezeudu; F. O. (Ph.D.); Aniodo; D. (Ph.D.)

Volume : III, Issue : IX, September - 2014

Review on Health Needs of Learners With Special Needs (Lsn) in Sub–Saharan Africa: Implications in Achieving the Millennium Development Goals

Eskay, M. Ph. D. , Ezeudu, F. O. Ph. D. , Aniodo, D. Ph. D.

Abstract :

With the global focus on 2015 and the MDGs, this paper highlights with life circumstances of learners with special needs (LSN) in sub–Saharan Africa, showing how investments in LSN can help achieve the MDGs. This paper is an investigative survey into the status and challenges of health of sub–Saharan Africa�s LSN. The result of this survey reveals that about 420 million (half of the entire population of the countries in this region are younger than 18. Young women here face a dual threat of unplanned pregnancy and risk of HIV unequalled in the rest of the world. Young men also face myriad challenges, including coping with the environmental degradation occurring in many of their countries. The realization of personal goals for these young women and men, and the economic and social development of their countries; depend to a great extent on the ability of learners with special needs to avoid unintended outcomes. This paper aims to provide educators, science educators, policymakers, programme managers, and the interested public in sub–Saharan Africa and around the world with a better understanding of the health needs and experiences of LSN in the region. It presents statistical data and information on the health issues and challenges that militate against achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as it affects the LSN are highlighted. Recommendations are based on how investments in learners with special needs (LSN) can help achieve the MDGs.