SHILLONG: Bethany Society Executive Director, Carmo Noronha informed that the Christoffel Blinden Mission (CBM) and its partner organization have started an initiative to include children with disabilities into mainstream education under the “CBM Include Vidya Campaign”.
The initiative which will be implemented across seven Northeastern states will create awareness and sensitise masses about the importance of inclusive education.
CBM is the leading disability and development organisation in India working in 21 states and has over 100 years of experience worldwide.
CBM is an active member of the Global Campaign for Education (GCE), a global social movement that aims to ensure free and equal access to high quality education for all. Their theme for 2014 is “Inclusive Education: Equal Right Equal Opportunity”.
“The whole idea of this initiative is to promote education starting with children,” Noronha said during a press conference here adding that the curriculum under this programme would include active learning, participation in the classroom as well as the playing field and other extra-curricular activities.
Naronha informed that from October 27 to 30 a series of events will be organised to raise awareness on the need for inclusive education. He also appealed to all to join the walkathon on October 30 to raise awareness on the issue. The walkathon will commence from Dhankheti at 9 am and head on to Don Bosco Square, Bethany Society and Lady Veronica Lane.
The Bethany Society executive director advocated short term training to all mainstream teachers to make inclusive education a reality.
Noronha, meanwhile, introduced a visually impaired 11-year old minor, Julianess from Mawkynrew who has just started school.
“Lack of awareness is the reason due to which Julianess lost almost 6 to 7 years of schooling. WE, the government and her parents are equally responsible for the loss,” he said.