The Special Education Needs Authority (SENA) marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a celebratory event held, today, at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture in Phoenix.
The event which is observed annually on 3rd December, featured a variety of performances, composing musical and dance items, as well as demonstrations of Karate and Zumba by Special Education Needs (SEN) learners. The theme for the occasion was ‘Promoting Diversity, Empowerment, and Inclusion’.
The Minister of Education and Human Resource, Dr Mahend Gungapersad; the Ombudsperson for Children, Mrs Aneetah Ghoorah; the Chairperson of SENA, Dr Veemen Kalisetty Appadu; the Director of SENA, Mrs Caroline Arekion; and other personalities were present at the event.
In his address, the Minister stressed the need for a shift in public perceptions of persons with disabilities. He underlined that for true inclusion to occur, there must be a foundation of humanism, and a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of families with individuals who have disabilities.
According to Dr Gungapersad, the role of parents, educators, and carers is instrumental in supporting children with special needs, while underlining their crucial contribution to the development of these children. Though challenges are inevitable, the overall objective, he said should be to ensure that children grow up happy and well-adjusted, with opportunities not only for academic success but also for personal growth and fulfilment.
Furthermore, the Minister underscored the importance of leisure activities and emotional well-being, particularly during school holidays, noting that this is an area of concern raised by many parents. On that score he proposed the possibility of establishing partnerships amongst primary and secondary schools and SEN institutions, to promote integration and foster a sense of unity and inclusion.
The Minister commended the performances of the SEN learners, acknowledging their considerable talents. He encouraged them to continue pursuing their passions, whether in sports, music, or academics, as they are capable of achieving success despite their disabilities.
The Ombudsperson for Children outlined the key functions of her Office in ensuring that children with disabilities receive the necessary support and education. Mrs Ghoorah elaborated on her role in protecting children, particularly those with disabilities, from any form of abuse.
For his part, the Chairperson of SENA dwelt on the necessity of providing the right support to staff, school leaders, and parents of disabled children. Dr Appadu focused on the goal of enabling children with disabilities to become independent and reliant individuals, capable of contributing to society.
The need for better coordination between all stakeholders involved in the care and education of children with disabilities was highlighted by the Director of SENA. She reiterated that SENA is committed to the principles of inclusion, equity, and non-discrimination. However, Mrs Akerion listed out existing challenges such as access to professional training, paramedical services, parental support, appropriate equipment both at school and at home, and early intervention programmes.
