EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

Story of a beneficiary:

Mohammed Sani is 9 years old in primary 2. He is the 3rd child among 5. He is physically challenged (paralysis of left leg), possibly post –poliomyelitis. Mohammed said “my two elder siblings attends school.” He wasn’t in school till CYDI visited their home. “My parents did not consider enrolling me into a school.” Mohammed, as a child with disability has an uncertain future before this intervention. “I am so happy to be in school like my elder ones and other children like me.” Mohammed expressed gratitude for the gesture extended to and for all the assistance (school pack, uniforms, books, fees, transport etc.).” His desire is to see all children with or without disabilities in school.”

Nothing should hinder me from pursuing education if the support continues.

Project Milestones:

• CYDI streamlined 15 children with disabilities into a model public school with a population of over 2200 children excluding nursery and high school students.
• CYDI to enroll 45 children with disabilities, orphans and vulnerable children into primary 1; and mainstream 28 others into a public school. 2011/12 school session resumes at permanent site by September 2011.
• Provided over 120 children with: uniforms, school pack, school fees, lunch, etc.
• Other school children interact freely with the children with disabilities thereby breaking the myths and stigma attached to disabilities.

Quotes:

• “I never thought I could go to school. Thanks to CYDI.”
• “Although I have opportunities to make friends within my environments, my coming to school has broaden my experience, coping skills and horizon.”
• As the Head-teacher, “I am coming into active contact within a school environment with special needs children. I now appreciate them more.”
• “My challenges are the steps on the building not school   mates.”
• Yes, I learn every day when I see my mates who lives with disabilities. They are bright and bold.”
• “I observed that, the children with disabilities have great minds and talents and takes risks more than I can imagine.”
• “Disability should not hinder me from pursuing education if the support continues.”

Read the project summary and rationale in the attached powerpoint presentation!

• Project Summary (PPT)