Breaking Barriers: Mzuzu University Centre for Inclusive Education (MUCIE)
Education should empower everyone, yet barriers like poverty, inequality, discrimination, and disability continue to limit access and opportunity. The Mzuzu University Centre for Inclusive Education (MUCIE) is committed to breaking these barriers and fostering a society where diversity is valued, and every individual has a right to learn and thrive.
MUCIE is dedicated to teaching, research, and programming that actively promotes equity and inclusion by addressing both: Elements of Inclusion and Elements of Exclusion. MUCIE’s work extends beyond academia. Through active community engagement, transdisciplinary collaboration, and partnerships with education professionals, the Centre is shaping a more inclusive and accessible education system. By integrating research, policy, and practice, MUCIE ensures that inclusive education is not just a concept—but a lived reality for learners in Malawi and beyond.
Our Objectives
The Centre for Inclusive Education is dedicated to achieving the following specific objectives
Promote inclusive education by working towards increased participation of learners with diverse needs at all levels of education in Malawi
facilitate collaborations with international, local and community partners on projects that serve to increase the quality of education for learners diverse needs, and improve teacher education curriculum and practice in the area of Inclusive Education and culturally responsive pedagogy.
Mission
To provide high quality education, training, research and complementary services that translate to increased participation and achievement of learners with diverse learning needs in Malawi and the African continent.
Vision
The vision of MUCIE is to be the leading centre of excellence in the area of inclusive education through transdisciplinary implementation of innovations and best practices, research, training, and community outreach.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we work with local and international organizations to promote inclusive education, conduct impactful research, and implement programs that foster equitable learning opportunities for all.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Local Partners
Mzuzu University Centre for Excellence in Water and Sanitation (WATSAN)
The Inclusive Centre has supported WATSAN in implementing an Inclusive Sanitation Research Project in Rumphi District, and offering expertise on disability and access to latrines for persons with diverse needs.The CCAP Synod of Livingstonia Synod Education Commission (Department of Special Needs Education)
In July 2015, the Inclusive Centre conducted a workshop with local teacher on to main topics:- Teaching Social skills to learners with disabilities
- Creating Supportive Learning Environments for Learners with Albinism and diverse learning needs.
International Partnerships
The Centre for Inclusive Education has a close partnership with the following:International Association of Special Education
Books and information resources in the centre were donated by IASE through its Volunteer Service Project (VSP). Through the VSP’s Giving Fund, the Centre for Inclusive Education benefited 16,000 US Dollars to help in the establishment of the centre. Additionally, through IASE, other international partnerships with the Centre have developed:
Duquesne University, USA
Special Education
Contact person, Dr. Morgan ChitiyoAcadia University, Canada
Inclusive EducationContact person, Dr. Lynn Aylward