Inclusive education champions: overcoming barriers in Zambia, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon

Despite efforts to promote inclusive education since the 1990s in Sub‑Saharan Africa, its implementation for children with disabilities remains uncommon. This study examines successful cases in Zambia, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon, identifying shared best practices that address challenges to inclusive education. These schools adopt a holistic perspective, integrating children’s roles within families, communities, and schools. Central to their success are key individuals—particularly head teachers and special educators—who act as advocates, connectors, knowledge brokers, role models, and entrepreneurs. These “champions” play interconnected roles critical to overcoming barriers and advancing inclusive practices. The study argues that such achievements might not have been possible without their efforts. By highlighting these successes, the research provides actionable insights with significant policy implications for advancing inclusive education across Sub‑Saharan Africa, offering guidance for donors, non‑governmental organizations, and governments aiming to promote equity in education. © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.