Pay allowances to teachers and parents taking care of children with special needs – Prof Aziato calls – Skyy Power FM

The Vice Chancellor for the University of Health and Allied Science in the Volta Region, Prof Lydia Aziato is calling on the government to pay allowances to teachers and parents who take care of children with special needs.

Speaking at the first congregation of Holy Child College of Education in Takoradi, Prof Aziato said in all her years as a teacher, she has come across several instances where parents of such children are depressed, and some end up isolating their children.

She said In some cases, the children are abandoned altogether, and they end up in homes or the children’s wards in Psychiatric Hospitals.

Acknowledging that caring for such children can be very challenging for both teachers and parents, Prof Aziato said it is important to ensure that they are provided with the needed education.

She said, “I want to use this opportunity to encourage all parents with children with disabilities to continue to give their best and support and care for the children. I applaud teachers who teach all these categories of children and urge them not to be discouraged. I suggest Your Excellency that parents and teachers who take care of children with special needs should be given some allowance to help them meet their daily necessities. It is noted that some parents are unable to work, and the teachers also spend more time and exert more effort in educating children with special needs.”

Prof Aziato said in this rapidly evolving world, where innovation and adaptability are key, she submits that technology should be deployed in inclusive education.

She indicated it’s necessary that educational infrastructure should be disability friendly and make it possible for easy access for staff and students with special needs.

She said, “I submit that education for those with special needs should be free and available across the country.”