EDUCATION should be something that is accessible to all layers of society especially children with special needs. Every child deserves an equal opportunity of acquiring an adequate education and this not something to be overlooked.
Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai who attended the graduation ceremony for secondary students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Persekutuan Pulau Pinang (SMKPKPPP) sent forth a powerful message on providing equal opportunity for children with special needs to acquire an adequate education.
“In Bukit Bendera constituency (parliamentary) there are some 30 over schools but this school is very special for me. Students from different states are also studying here.
“I was informed that the school was established in 1954 and has played a pivotal role in educating thousands of children with special needs.
“I believe that the philosophy of education should be focusing on upholding the ‘No child should be left behind’ philosophy.
“Every child needs to be given an equal opportunity and space to unleash their potential to the fullest let it be academically and non-academically,” said Wong during the graduation ceremony held at Berjaya Hotel today.
Wong also encouraged the children to learn computer skills as it is a universal language which will enable them to communicate with people without any barriers.
“The language of computer is the same everywhere. So, I see the need in learning the skills for instance, coding, graphics and so on. Apart from that, it is essential for society to be rich with love and kindness so that we can help each other.
“Recently, the Ministry of Education had announced that stateless children can get enrolled in our schools. This is (precisely) what I mentioned earlier that ‘No child should be left behind’,” affirmed Wong.
The ceremony saw some 70 students with hearing impairment (who sat for their PMR, SPM and STPM) graduating.
Also present was Penang State Education director Mohd Jamil Mohamed and SMKPKPPP principal Eshamuddin Abdul Rahim.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alvie Cheng