Inclusive Education Project Benefits Students with Autism at Two Municipal in Chitwan

Chitwan, January 4, 2024 – A pioneering inclusive education project is making significant strides at two Municipalities in the Chitwan district positively impacting the lives of students with autism. The project, active in 147 community schools across Bharatpur Metropolitan City and Kalika Municipality, is tailored to cater to the specific needs of these students.

Project Highlights and Achievements

Suman Paudel, the project coordinator, shared key insights into the project's progress and its widespread impact during an interactive program held on January 3, 2024. The project has achieved notable successes, including:

• Resource Centers and Special Schools: Seven resource centers and three special schools have been established in the municipality to provide specialized support and education.
• Physiotherapy and Home-based Education: A total of 39 children with autism have received physiotherapy services, and 137 children are benefiting from home-based education.
• Distribution of Auxiliary Materials: To assist children with autism who are unable to attend school, the project has distributed necessary materials to 143 children in the village.
• Support for Complex Disabilities: 34 children with complex disabilities have received materials to aid their daily activities.

Since its inception in 2022, the project has actively engaged with the community, reaching out to 1,750 parents in the district.

Expanding Access and Awareness

The project has also focused on raising awareness and improving access to education and social services for children with disabilities:

• Inclusive Education Orientation: As many as 1,118 individuals have been oriented on inclusive education, enhancing community understanding and support.
• Social Security Services Access: The project has extended access to social security services to 17 children with disabilities.

Sharmila Tamang, project coordinator of the National Federation of the Deaf Nepal (NDFN), highlighted the enrollment of 31 children in schools, marking a significant milestone for those receiving home-based education.

Challenges and Societal Perceptions

Despite these achievements, challenges persist, particularly regarding societal attitudes towards autism. Families of children with autism still face difficulties due to prevailing societal perceptions and lack of understanding. This indicates a need for continued efforts in promoting inclusivity and awareness to foster a more accepting and supportive environment for children with autism and their families.

The inclusive education project in Chitwan district stands as a testament to the positive change that targeted initiatives can bring in the field of education for children with special needs. As it continues to evolve and expand, the project not only enhances the lives of students with autism but also paves the way for a more inclusive and empathetic society.