VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOINews, Jakarta - Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini revealed that she is currently exploring opportunities with the United States to train special teachers for people with Down syndrome.

While giving remarks at the ASEAN High-Level Forum on Disability-Inclusive Development and Partnership Beyond 2025 in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Thursday, the minister said that the management of inclusive schools can only accommodate people with physical disabilities who can still take lessons in public schools

However, when these special teachers handle students with Down syndrome, who require special attention, it becomes a challenge itself, so Rismaharini said she is trying tries to explore opportunities to get assistance from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) with the help of the US Special Advisor for International Disability Rights, Sarah Minkara.

"Well, this is one of the things I mentioned to the advisor, Sarah, on how I could get assistance from USAID to facilitate special teachers for schools with Down syndrome students," the minister added.

She noted that children with Down syndrome have unlimited potential, saying that their talent must be developed with the intervention of special teachers.

"When I say teachers do not mean school teachers, but trainers who understand and capture the potential that children with Down syndrome have," said Risma.

The high-level forum was attended by 200 participants from representatives of ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, ASEAN affiliated organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities, ASEAN dialogue partners, and academics. The event was held in Makassar from October 10 to 12, 2023. (Antaranews)