Awareness campaign highlights challenges people with different abilities face

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Educational Center in Talca, Chile, raised awareness of the importance and value of diversity, emphasizing inclusive education and non-discrimination. In November, it held a week-long campaign under the motto “We are all different, but in this house we grow together.” Efforts focused on building awareness among students, teachers and teaching assistants about the challenges people with different abilities face.

Three workshops focused on strategies for dealing with situations of emotional and behavioral dysregulation, including a dialogue on Autism Spectrum Disorder for educational assistants, a speech therapy workshop on voice care for school leaders and a psychology workshop for parents. The Teletón Foundation also organized a workshop for preschool and basic education students for children to participate in recreational and educational activities.

In a reflection shared with the educational community during morning prayer, teachers Francisca Núñez and Sofía Sánchez both noted, “Everyone, regardless of how they are or where they come from, has the right to receive a quality education and to be treated with respect.”

A graduate who is deaf shared an emotional testimony about his difficulties, joys and gratitude for the support he received at the Salesian school. The week of activities culminated with students sharing suggestions on how to be more inclusive during recess on both campuses.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social development programs for poor youth in Chile. Once finished with primary and secondary school, students can advance for higher education. Salesian technical schools cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and ability to gain livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

According to the World Bank, Chile has a fairly low poverty rate of less than 10%. However, Chile struggles with high rates of income and education inequality. Salesian missionaries working in Chile focus their efforts on providing education and social services to poor and at-risk youth. At Salesian schools, universities and youth centers throughout the country, youth can access an education as well as the skills and resources necessary to break the cycle of poverty.

###

Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Chile – Inclusive Education and Non-Discrimination Week for the Salesians at Talca

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile