Ten years ago, Kenyan entrepreneur Mercy Gatere founded Readers Territory Enterprises, a community library and learning hub in Kajiado town. It was created to ensure that knowledge and opportunities for growth are accessible to all.
On average, the centre serves 25 to 40 people each week, including many persons with disabilities. ‘Whether it is audiobooks for visually impaired readers or inclusive reading circles, we are saying to each person: you belong here.’
Her commitment is guided by the principle ‘Nothing about us without us. As she explains, ‘The disability inclusion programme grew out of a very real community need’. Over the years, she noticed that many readers, especially persons with disabilities and children with learning gaps, were being left out of opportunities to learn, engage, and connect. ‘Rather than wait for solutions, we decided to create them,’ she adds.
An active learner at the ITC SME Trade Academy, Mercy has become what she calls a ‘knowledge multiplier’. She took part in the first cohort of the AI-powered course: ‘Raising Funds for Your Business’, and continues searching for other learning opportunities on the platform. ‘Courses on entrepreneurship, and inclusive development have guided me in building a model that is both impactful and sustainable.’
She notes that the courses have also strengthened her ability to improve the delivery of inclusive literacy programmes for children, youth and adults. ‘They have improved our organizational management and strategic planning, helping us structure these programmes more effectively.’
The centre also works with older learners, helping them gain confidence in using apps and online platforms. ‘I have seen how digital skills training opens new doors for older adults.’
Looking ahead, Readers Territory Enterprises plans to expand activities into more rural areas, increase digital accessibility, strengthen partnerships for assistive technologies, and continue disability-awareness training for staff and volunteers.
E-learning increases education access for persons with disabilities
E-learning provides flexibility that is especially beneficial for persons with disabilities, allowing learners to study at their own pace, take breaks when needed and replay materials to support understanding.
Today, 16% of the world’s population lives with a disability. As they are affected by a lower labour market, many are pushed towards self-employment. Inclusive, high-quality online training helps reduce these barriers and opens new opportunities.
Disability inclusion is increasingly integrated across ITC. The ITC SME Trade Academy is currently reviewing all course content to improve accessibility, gathering feedback through an online student consultation and conducting a full internal assessment.
This progress resonates with Mercy: ‘Disability inclusion programmes remind me daily that true hospitality is not just about opening doors but ensuring everyone can walk through them.’