Student Leaders’ Role In The Effective Implementation Of Inclusive Education In Ghanaian Senior High Schools

Abstract

The emergence of inclusive education has shifted school leadership from a traditional model dominated by principals to a more collaborative approach involving shared leadership among various stakeholders, including often-overlooked student leaders. This study employed a case study design to explore the contributions of student leaders to the effective implementation of inclusive education in a Ghanaian high school. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 18 student leaders and 2 members of the school management. It was thematically analyzed to derive 4 subthemes, namely, Roles and Responsibilities, Relationship and Engagement, Positive Impact and Inclusive Education Recognition, and Challenges. Findings indicate that student leaders play a crucial role in promoting diversity and fostering a culture of respect and acceptance. They collaborate with school authorities to identify challenges, propose solutions, and facilitate the implementation of inclusive policies. By establishing supportive networks, they assist peers with disabilities in navigating academic activities and the physical environment while advocating for their needs within the classroom. The relationships built by student leaders are founded on empathy and trust, which are essential to the well-being of all students. However, student leaders also face challenges that impede their effectiveness in supporting students with disabilities within the Inclusive education framework.