Special Needs Education System Fails to Deliver

A mother, whose child attends a Resource Centre managed by the Special Education Needs Authority (SENA), has spoken out about the dire conditions her child faces. She lamented the lack of adapted equipment and professionals for adequate follow-up.

Moreover, she revealed that during a recent parent meeting, the possibility of seeking sponsors to purchase materials was discussed, despite the centre being funded by the government.

“I am heartbroken,” said the mother of a child with special needs.

“My child is at the age of primary school, but no school has been willing to accept him due to his difference. I ended up at this government-run Resource Centre, thinking I had finally found a solution for my child. Several months later, I realize that SENA has sold me a dream.”

The mother explained that she decided to admit her child to the centre after reading articles about the facilities offered.

“I read that no child should be left behind,” she said. “It gave me a lot of comfort, as I had encountered many difficulties and rejections until then. Not all schools want to accept a child with a disability. But today, I realize it’s not what was promised.”

She cited as an example the lack of therapists. To date, she said her child has not had a session with a psychologist or speech therapist.

“When I asked for explanations at school, they told me that these specialists are responsible for all schools in the region. So, I wonder when my child will have the opportunity to see them.”

The mother questioned whether she should find ways to provide private therapy sessions for her child in addition to school. “It’s like asking if education is free for our children with disabilities.”

She also lamented the state of the schoolyard and the lack of recreational facilities.

“There’s only grass in the courtyard. There are no swings or slides. On the other hand, when I look at the new centre for autistic children that was recently opened in Bois-Chéri, I see it’s well-equipped. My heart is heavy. Does my child not deserve the same treatment?”

The mother said she is overwhelmed because she is fighting to ensure her child has autonomy so that he can have a better future.

“At his age, my child is still in diapers and can’t speak well. My greatest wish is for him to be autonomous so he can take care of himself when I’m no longer around. If he was followed by necessary professionals, he could make progress.”

The situation at the centre was discussed during a recent parent meeting.

“Some parents mentioned the need to seek sponsors to equip the school. I find this absurd, as it’s a government-run centre. That’s why we want to be heard,” she said.

It is worth noting that in the latest budget, SENA received an envelope of Rs 11.5 million for equipping a specialized unit in five primary schools and for works in two other schools.

Source: Le Mauricien