“CREATIVE spaces and programmes add dimension to education,” said Minister of Education Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine yesterday during his address at the launching of the Creativity Centre at the Diamond Special Needs School, East Bank Demerara. The $5.5M project will allow students of the school to be engaged in creative activities such as arts and craft, along with other activities geared at developing skills.

According to the minister, “We must ensure that no child is left behind, especially in the realm of special needs,” given that there must an inclusive effort to ensure that every child in Guyana is given an opportunity to be educated.
Taking into account that some of the children might not be able to grasp academics, a skill and creativity could still be introduced to them.
The efforts of the United Women for Special Children (UWFSC) ought to be applauded given the fact that the initiative is their brainchild, he said, adding that,“we must applaud the efforts of persons who are filling the gaps.”
ALL-INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Further, Minister Roopnaraine noted that there must also be an abundance of music and sports in all schools, because it is the only way they could establish an all-inclusive education.
Meanwhile, President of the UWFSC, Ms. Angela Rahaman, made it clear that their hope and mission are to promote creativity in the students, which in the long run will help them to integrate into society.
The project, she noted, started in July this year after much deliberation among members of the group and the Head Teacher Wendy Webster
Apart from the Diamond Special Needs School, she said that over the years they have been involved with the development of the New Amsterdam Special Needs School and the David Rose School for the Handicapped.
Referring to the Diamond Special Needs School, Rahaman recalled that “during 1995, students were housed in an old building not far from the current location, therefore, we saw the need and built the school.” And next month will mark 20 years since the school was built.
Meanwhile, the headmistress thanked the Ministry of Education and the UWFSC for their continued support and promised that their efforts will not go in vain.
Some of the teachers told this publication that it is not an easy task to deal with students with special needs, as it takes more time and extra effort.
However, they stressed that it is a joy to see the students smile whenever they accomplish something, and there is a sense of satisfaction for both the teachers and students.

By Navendra Seoraj