An United Childrens Fund Ambassador, Lucy Meyer has visited Jamaica to spread greater awareness on special needs in the island. Meyer who has cerebral palsy has been an advocate for those living with disabilities
. In celebration of World Children Day, Meyer visited several special needs schools to reassure parents and students that those with special needs can still make a difference in the lives of others.
According to UNICEF, there are many children with special needs who often face multiple forms of discrimination leading to their exclusion from society and school. The attitude towards children with special needs as well as the lack of resources to accommodate them in the learning environment therefore remains a concerns for the organisation (UNICEF).
As part of Meyer’s visit, she addressed students and teachers at the Stony Hill Primary, Junior High and Infant School and Genesis Academy and Skills Training Centre. Currently, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Education for all Framework is aiming to meet the learning needs of all children regardless of their disabilities.
KHADIJAH THOMAS
