The Ghana Education Service (GES) as part of efforts towards inclusive education is creating new policy guidelines to help learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
It was made known in a blog post sighted by Ghana Education News. According to the GES, “The Ghana Education Service is working on creating new policy guidelines to help learners with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) transition into vocational training.”
During a special one-day session held at the GES headquarters, stakeholders came together to discuss empowering these learners with employable skills for a brighter future.
The initiative is being led by Ms. Helena Mensah the Director Special Education and her team. They are leading this initiative, along with partners like Africa Action Ghana and the Ananse Foundation in Germany.
The project aims to make strides towards a more inclusive and supportive educational system for all learners irrespective of their disabilities if any.
Benefits of Policy Guidelines for IDD Learners Transitioning into Vocational Training
There are countless benefits that the policy will help realize in Ghana under the Ghana Education Service. Typical benefits of such policies and programmes are outlined below.
Equal Access: Ensures equitable access to vocational training opportunities for IDD learners, promoting inclusivity.
Skill Development: Fosters skill development tailored to the abilities and needs of IDD learners, enhancing their vocational prospects.
Independence: Empowers IDD learners to gain skills for independent living and meaningful employment.
Employability: Increases employability by providing relevant training and support services.
Self-Confidence: Boosts self-confidence and self-esteem through successful vocational training outcomes.
Social Integration: Facilitates social integration by preparing IDD learners for interactions in vocational settings.
Community Participation: Encourages active participation in the community through vocational engagement.
Reduced Dependence: Reduces dependence on social welfare by promoting self-sufficiency and financial independence.
Quality of Life: Improves overall quality of life for IDD learners by offering meaningful and fulfilling vocational opportunities.
Contribution to Society: Enables IDD learners to contribute to society positively, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.
It is hoped that the new policy guidelines will help learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) and help in the gradual transition of the policy into vocational training in Ghana.