06 May 2018

The Japanese Embassy has donated P849 187 for the construction of a special education unit at Kgale Hill Secondary School for 68 students living with disabilities.

Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony and appreciation of the special education unit, Japan’s Ambassador, Mr Kozo Takeda said government had been committed in providing education to all children, including those living with disabilities since 1994.

He noted that the Ministry of Basic Education established a division for special education in order to implement a special education programme so that children living with disability were able to have equal opportunities just like those who were able bodied.

“Because of their disabilities, the students need extra time and attention in order to follow mainstream education,” he said.

Mr Takeda highlighted that only one porter cabin was available for them to use for art classes which was too small to cater for everyone

He said with the new special education unit funded by the government of Japan, 68 students living with disabilities would secure an appropriate learning environment in order to implement the individuals learning programme for their future independence and participation in society. ‘‘Students lead the future of Botswana regardless of their disabilities, and an inclusive society can only be achieved and maintained when all concerned parties work together,” he said.

For his part, Basic Education Minister, Mr Bagalatia Arone said the diplomatic relations between Japan and Botswana dated back 50 years. Ends