Cost of inclusive education for students with specific needs

Between 2014 and 2025, the Ministry of Education in the Dominican Republic allocated an average of less than 0.35% of its total budget to special education. This funding level persists despite data indicating that the cost of providing inclusive education for students with specific disabilities can be up to 35 times higher than the cost of educating a regular student.

The significant disparity between the allocated budget and the actual financial requirements for inclusive education highlights a systemic challenge in meeting the needs of students with disabilities. The data underscores a long-term trend in public spending that contrasts with the higher resource intensity required for specialized academic support.