– On Friday, September 7, 2012, approximately 100 participants from various communities in Region 1 gathered to observe the commencement of National Education Month 2012.

Organised by the Regional Department of Education, that event celebrated this year’s theme, “Transforming the Nation through Inclusive Education”.
The event began with a march, and culminated with a rally that included remarks from education officers, a banner-decorating activity, and games designed to suit children of all ages and levels of ability.
“Inclusive education is really about fostering an education system that is accessible to children of all ability levels, and embraces the participation of the whole community in the education process,” said Peace Corps Volunteer Nathaniel Stewart in an address to the participants.
In order to make the event as comprehensive as possible, teachers from the local Special Education Needs (SEN) cluster were consulted to help identify children with disabilities for participation in the rally.
“It was nice to see children of many different abilities asked to take part in the day’s festivities,” remarked District Education Officer, Bissoondai Deoram.
The event was not the first of its kind in Region 1. Thanks to the efforts of the steadily growing SEN teacher cluster, which is supported by both the Regional Education and Regional Health Departments, awareness of people with disabilities in the area has been steadily on the rise.
For the last two years, the region has hosted similar events for Rehabilitation Month, which celebrates people of all abilities.
“Some people have visible challenges, like trouble walking, while many people struggle with invisible challenges, like learning disabilities. Everyone has their own challenges they have to face,” said president of the local SEN teacher cluster, Rayann Chu.
The Peace Corps is pleased to assist the region’s efforts to ensure increased development of inclusive education systems.