GUYANA Teachers Union (GTU) President Colin Bynoe highlighted the benefits of inclusive education in noting that it supports and accommodates the varied needs and abilities of all students within the usual educational setting.

However, he urged the Ministry of Education to institute in the education system reforms that would allow for the principles and practices of inclusion.
Bynoe made these remarks in addressing his fellow principals and other educators at the launch of Education Month, held at the Berbice High School Auditorium on Wednesday under the theme, “Transforming the nation through inclusive education”.
According to him, students with special needs experience increased self-esteem because they are attending classes in regular schools rather than in special education institutions. Consequently, learners with high self-esteem perform better in school than those with low self-esteem.
Additionally, Bynoe observed that learners who are not considered as having special needs develop a greater understanding and acceptance of students with disabilities and diversities.
“This is important, because another important factor that can influence learners’ academic performance is the level of threat in the classroom. The fact that learners with special needs are understood and appreciated, their differences will increase the level of safety that they need to boost their self-concept, thus motivating them to try their best,” Bynoe said.
The unionist insisted that life for learners can be transformed, but educators are in dire need of adequate knowledge and skills to effectively engage learners in the inclusive classrooms.
In addition, he noted that there is need for a special needs specialist who can effectively monitor the inclusive education programmes at the various levels.