INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AND THE SPEECH THERAPIST'S ROLE

Inclusive education represents a global commitment to providing equitable learning opportunities for all students, regardless of their physical, linguistic, or cognitive differences. This article explores the vital role of speech and language therapists (SLTs) in fostering communication competence, social inclusion, and academic success within inclusive educational settings. It examines how SLTs contribute through assessment, individualized education planning (IEP), direct therapy, and collaboration with teachers and families. The study identifies key challenges such as insufficient resources, limited interdisciplinary cooperation, and inadequate teacher training, which often hinder the effective inclusion of students with speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN). Furthermore, the paper proposes evidence-based recommendations emphasizing teamwork, professional development, advocacy, and policy support to strengthen inclusive practices. By promoting communication as a fundamental human right, SLTs not only enhance students’ participation but also help cultivate a culture of empathy and equality in schools. The findings underscore the importance of integrating speech therapy services within mainstream education to achieve genuine inclusion and educational equity.