ENHANCING INCLUSIVE EDUCATION THROUGH OPEN AND DISTANCE EDUCATION FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES IN NIGERIA

University education is a critical component of human capital development worldwide. It is also an avenue of self-actualization for most people in the learning process. However, the vast majority of prospective students are denied access to University education especially the disabled individuals due to limited space. Open and Distance education therefore becomes the viable option as it accommodates millions of students who can study from the comfort of wherever they live or work. This necessitated the establishment of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) education which provides highly accessible and enhanced quality education. ODL also increases manpower development and general literacy. The flexible operation of the Open and Distance education gives the learner the greatest possible control over time. The Open and Distance learning movement has opened the horizon of students thereby re-shaping what they learn and access learning. Despite the advantages of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL), individuals with disabilities are still marginalized and socially/educationally excluded. Therefore, Open and Distance education can integrate the disabled maximally if stakeholders develop educational facilities and curriculum in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) that can enhance teaching and learning for the individuals with disability in Nigeria.