The Bayelsa Education Development Trust Fund (BEDTF), on Saturday has launched six-week training program for teachers, focusing on addressing learning deficiencies among children in public schools.
The initiative is a joint effort between the BEDTF, the Teachers Training, Registration and Certification Board (TTRCB), and the Bridge Academy in the United States (US).
Speaking at the launch event, Bayelsa’s commissioner of education, Gentle Emelah, represented by Charles Daniel, chairman of the Bayelsa Assembly committee on education, explained that inclusive education, which provides special attention to students with learning disabilities, would be a reality through the training.
Mr Emelah praised the BEDTF for organizing the training and encouraged the participating teachers to make the most of the opportunity to support children with learning difficulties.
Alice Atuwo, the executive secretary of the BEDTF, pointed out that the fund had identified a gap in addressing the learning needs of children with deficiencies. She explained that the training would be delivered in six modules, with sessions held every Saturday over the next six weeks.
Atuwo said: “I am happy because we are here today to learn how to handle a critical sector in our educational system which has hitherto been neglected, that is special education or to be specific, learning disabilities.
“Research has shown that every child has what it takes to be great, no matter how challenged they may be, if given extra support from those who understand them.
“This is the crux of today’s training, where inclusive education is practised in every classroom. Classrooms where children with special needs are given equal treatment, learning without discrimination.”
Peremoboere Ugolo, acting chairman of TTRC, stressed that inclusive education would enhance learning outcomes.
Ugolo urged the teachers and school administrators to apply the knowledge gained and become advocates for inclusive education in their respective institutions.
Mabel Joel from the Bridge Institute, US, revealed her commitment to giving back to her homeland by sharing her expertise in learning disabilities.
Joel conducted the training virtually from the US, encouraging the teachers to not only participate in the training but also champion inclusive education.
