Bhutan’s Down syndrome community calls for inclusive growth and better support

Every year, March 21^st is observed as World Down Syndrome Day to raise awareness about this genetic condition. People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome, which can cause developmental delays and potential physical and intellectual challenges. In the country, children with Down Syndrome from Paro and Thimphu joined the celebrations alongside parents and relevant organisations. While the government provides some assistance, parents say more support is needed.

21-year-old, Kinley Gyeltshen who has Down syndrome, began school at Drukgyel Central School at the age of 12. Now in the ninth grade, he says, community support has made a big difference in his journey.

“I have the support from my parents, teachers and school. But please do support us more.”

Shari Early Childhood Care and Development, a private ECCD Centre, led the celebration. The centre says there is a need for more government support, especially in training specialised facilitators.

“We have been trying to support children with all types of disabilities, but it is challenging for us. We don’t have the proper skills to support these children with severe disabilities, and then we also lack the knowledge to support these children with disabilities. But whatever is said and done, we are trying our best to support them. When we cannot support them, we refer to organisations like Ability Bhutan Society,” said Thinley Wangmo, Founder of Shari ECCD Centre.

Likewise, parents shared that having more inclusive school and job opportunities is important to securing their children’s future.

“No matter how long it takes them to complete a grade, what happens next? We need better transition support and more job opportunities,” said Dechen Pem, a Parent.

World Down Syndrome Day is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012 to help people understand and support those with Down syndrome better.

According to the United Nations, between 3,000 and 5,000 children are born with Down syndrome every year around the world.

Singye Dema

Edited by Sonam Pem