Government is fully committed to the provision of quality education for every child according to their needs.
This was stressed by the Ministry of Information, National Archives and Library Services of Fiji permanent secretary Sharon Smith Johns today at the Hilton Early Intervention Centre for Children with special needs annual prize giving ceremony.
“By now, many of you are aware of the plans next year to make education more accessible to every student in the country – a plan that makes education free for every Fijian; it ensures that no child will be left behind,” Ms Smith-Johns said.
She said under the 2014 budget, government has allocated $550,000 as an operating grant for special schools for the blind, and the intellectually and physically handicapped.
Ms Smith Johns who was present at the school in her capacity as chief guest, encouraged the children of to excel and perform their utmost best in school.
“You need to demonstrate that you can perform the same or even better than other students. Don’t let anyone or anything get in your way of doing your best. Remember, there are those who have struggled and have become successful today,” Ms Smith Johns added.
She said the constitution recognizes and promotes rights to effective participation of all Fijians in society on an equal basis with others.
“Fiji government signed the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability in 2010 and has completed the review of the Fiji National Council for Disabled Persons (FNCDP) Act and is drafting the new Disability Decree 2013,” Ms Smith-Johns said.
“This will give more powers to persons living with disabilities to exercise their rights to live dignified and productive lives.”
Hilton Early Intervention Centre manager Mr Jowahir Lal expressed his gratitude to Government for its emphasis on education especially free education provisions for all students next year.
Mrs Miriama Tuinasau, a proud parent applauded the school’s contribution to the development of her son’s learning capabilities throughout for the last three years.
The ceremony featured the graduation of fourteen students who will now be able to attend mainstream schools and other special schools.
The school also opened a new change room and play area through the donation by the Embassy United States of America staff association.
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