by Illy Syafiah Mak Abdullah
We are a group of special educators from SMK Bandar Tasik Selatan, Kuala Lumpur. Our students are learning disabled. For almost 20 years, the classes, activities and students are segregated. This has brought more negative than positive impact to the students with disabilities. They have low self esteem, afraid to interact with typical students in the school, and easily give up. That's why we planned and organized a series of program called "Togetherness with a Difference". This project consist of Special Education Week, Survival Camp and Career Visits. Apart from boosting the confidence and knowledge of SWDs, it is also a chance for all regular school community members to get to know us a bit up close and personal. However, these programs need a lot of funds that the SWDs cannot afford to pay. Almost 80% of them came from low income family. Grants and funds from school also limited as there are other programs designated by the ministry. Most SWDs have never been away from their home or school. They have never seen or experience the possibilities and wonders of the big big world. School is their only hope, their chance and their escape to the better world.
Category / Community