THE Ministry of Education (MOE) has unveiled plans to inaugurate the much-anticipated Aquatic Therapy Pool at the Regional Special Education Needs and Disability Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, situated within the premises of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) in Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara.

The initiative, which was marked by the groundbreaking ceremony held in January of the preceding year, is poised to cater to approximately 200 individuals in need of specialised care and therapy.

A report published by this newspaper in January 2023 underscored the multifaceted benefits of the Aquatic Therapy Pool. Apart from offering therapeutic relief to learners grappling with sensory coordination and muscle-strength challenges, the pool aims to foster social interaction opportunities and enhance balance and posture, particularly for individuals with visual impairments.

Among the primary beneficiaries of this groundbreaking initiative are students from various educational institutions, including the Unit for the Blind and Visually Impaired, David Rose Special Needs School, Beterverwagting/Quamina Special Unit, Diamond and No. 8 Village Special Needs Schools; as well as learners accessing services at CPCE for early stimulation.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, during her address at the sod-turning ceremony, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to elevating the quality of life for individuals with special education needs. She emphasised the pivotal role played by initiatives such as the Aquatic Therapy Pool in promoting inclusivity and holistic development within the education sector.

The realisation of the Aquatic Therapy Pool is emblematic of a collaborative endeavour between the Ministry of Education and a benevolent donor, whose personal experience witnessing the transformative impact of aquatic therapy on his differently-abled son inspired his philanthropic contribution.

As the Ministry of Education prepares to formally commission the Aquatic Therapy Pool, stakeholders and beneficiaries eagerly anticipate the profound positive impact it will have on the lives of individuals with special needs, underscoring a significant stride towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable education landscape in Guyana.