COTABATO CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Apr. 8, 2014) – The Department of Education in the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao said new “special education” centers would be constructed in the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao and Basilan as part of its literacy programs.
At present, there are only two special education centers – one in Jolo town in Sulu province and the other in Bongao town in Tawi-Tawi province, according to Education Secretary Jamar Kulayan.
Kulayan, who is also a prominent lawyer, has recently signed an order revitalizing the special education program and to make sure that (special) schools are available in the Muslim region. It caters to students who have special educational needs due to severe learning difficulties or physical disabilities and behavioural problems.
“While the long-term and eventual focus is integration and mainstreaming, key activities shall be undertaken toward this goal including profiling and mapping of differently-abled school-aged children, establishment of special education centers, identification and training of qualified teachers and trainers, provision of support system, regular monitoring and evaluation, close coordination with the Department of Education Central Office and other stakeholders, and undertake resourcing to sustain and expand program if needed,” Kulayan said.
In his order, Kulayan also directed school divisions to identify possible sites where the special schools may be established and to coordinate with the local office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development for initial listing and hiring of prospective teachers for specialized training.
Kulayan said the regional government is aggressively pursuing literacy programs in the provinces, citing the importance of education to the future not only of the constituents, but also in nation building. (With a report from Mark Navales)
Link: http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121120105707
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