Coinciding with the International day for persons with disability, the first regional seminar on inclusive education with focus on children with disabilities started in Paro, today.
The Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, attended the opening.
At least 200 people including policy makers, experts, teachers, students and representatives from CSOs, private and government organisations are attending the seminar.
Addressing participants, Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, highlighted the importance of ensuring access, not only to education, but to quality education.
“…Access alone does not constitute inclusive education. We must be prepared to ensure that the children with disabilities that we educate have the foundations to enjoy a lifelong education…”
Among the participants is the Principal of Muenselling Institue, Tshongpoen Wangdi. He says it is a predominant but baseless belief that a child with disability cannot be educated. He shares that many students in his school have proven that they are as capable as any other person.
“Our society believes that those with disabilities are incapable. But we need to look at the child’s interest and skills and then educate and engage him in activities accordingly”
The three-day seminar will see exchange of ideas and experience among experts and stakeholders from within and outside the country. The seminar is jointly organised by the Paro College of Education and UNICEF.
