Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 8th May 2024 – The Department of Special Education Needs Services (SENS), under the Ministry of Education, organized a series of inclusive events over the weekend dedicated to celebrating children with special needs and raising awareness about autism.
The weekend kicked off with the SNAP Center Fun Day on April 26th, which welcomed children with special needs from special education classrooms across Providenciales and clients of the SENS Department. The Fun Day offered a range of engaging activities tailored to the unique needs of the participants, fostering a sense of joy, inclusivity, and community.
“We are delighted to have provided a platform for children with special needs to come together and enjoy a day filled with fun and laughter,” said Dr. Anya Malcolm, Director of SENS.
“Our goal is to create inclusive spaces where all children feel valued and supported.”
Following the success of the Fun Day, the Department organized a Rainbow Walk on April 27th in honor of Autism Awareness month. The early morning walk was well attended by over 100 individuals, including esteemed guests such as the Governor H.E. Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure Hon. Jamel Robinson, Minister of Health and acting Minister of Education Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin, and other dignitaries, and demonstrated solidarity and support for individuals with autism and their families.
“We are grateful for the overwhelming support from our community and honored to have had distinguished guests join us for the Rainbow Walk,” remarked Hon. Shaun Malcolm.
“Their presence underscores the collective commitment to promoting understanding and inclusivity.” Permanent Secretary for the Ministry responsible for Special Education Needs Services, Mrs. Cherylann Jones was also present at the inaugural event and praised the department for the successful walk.
She also noted that in the next year the intention is to hold these walks across all islands.
Although the Minister of Education, Hon, Rachel Taylor, was away on official duties, she conveyed her full support for the walk and other initiatives conducted in the month of April.
She commented, “I am proud of the Department’s efforts in organizing these events and raising awareness about the needs of children with special needs. I look forward to greater support in the future as we continue to strengthen our special education needs services.”
The Department of Special Needs Services extends sincere appreciation to all volunteers, sponsors, and community partners whose contributions made the weekend of events a resounding success.
For more information about the Department of Special Education Needs Services and upcoming events, please contact sens@gov.tc.