Inclusive Education Practices and the Education 2030 Agenda in Public Secondary Schools in Mezam Division, North-West Cameroon
Abstract
This study assessed inclusive education practices in public secondary schools in Mezam Division, North-West Cameroon, in relation to the attainment of the Education 2030 Agenda. The research focused on two specific indicators: the provision of inclusive infrastructure and inclusive staff development and training practices. Employing a concurrent nested mixed-method research design, data were gathered from a sample of 351 participants, including 335 teachers through questionnaires and 16 administrators using interview guides. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and inferential statistics, including Spearman Rank correlation and multiple regression analysis (ANOVA) to test the hypotheses, while qualitative data from interviews were processed through thematic analysis. Quantitative overall findings for inclusive infrastructure revealed a slightly positive trend (Mean=2.75), where ramps (Mean=3.43) and flexible layouts (Mean=3.36) were primary strengths, but adaptive playgrounds (Mean=1.73) were a major deficiency. Qualitatively, administrators exhibited a "knowing-doing gap," where moral commitment was hindered by structural and financial barriers. On this basis, research hypothesis one was accepted, as infrastructure significantly influences the attainment of the Education 2030 Agenda (p=0.004). Regarding staff development, the overall results also highlighted a slightly positive trend (Mean=2.89), yet 81.8% reported a lack of school-organized training (Mean=2.09). The staff development hypothesis was also accepted, showing a highly significant implication for the attainment of Education 2030 Agenda (p=0.000). It was generally recommended that educational authorities provide more inclusive infrastructures and ensure teachers receive adequate, continuous training and seminars in specialized pedagogy to transform the Education 2030 Agenda into a reality