Challenges Faced by Special Needs Students in Inclusive Classrooms: A Case Study of Karakoram International University, Gilgit

Muhammad Hadi  Haideri; Bashir  Ahmad; Anum  Hafeez (JSET)

doi:10.63056/

Authors

Muhammad Hadi Haideri Ph. D Scholar, Department of Special Education, Division of Education, University of Education, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan Author
Bashir Ahmad B.Ed Hons, Special Education, Karakoram International University, Gilgit Author
Anum Hafeez (JSET) Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63056/

Keywords:

inclusive education, students with disabilities, higher education, Karakoram International University, HEC policy, accessibility, institutional support

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges faced by students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms at Karakoram International University (KIU), Gilgit, within the framework of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) Policy Guidelines for Inclusive Education (2021). Using a quantitative survey of 50 students, data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA to examine academic accommodations, social integration, accessibility of infrastructure, and institutional support. Findings reveal major gaps in course material accessibility, faculty preparedness, infrastructural facilities, and institutional services, while peer and faculty interpersonal support emerged as relative strengths. No significant gender differences were identified, though female students reported slightly greater social challenges. Departmental differences were significant in academic challenges and approached significance in institutional support. The results underscore the gap between inclusive education policy and its practical implementation in Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting the urgent need for faculty training, infrastructural upgrades, resource centers, and awareness initiatives.