In conjunction with the celebration of World Down Awareness Syndrome Day 2024, the Ministry of Education through the Special Education Department organised the colouring, drawing and collage competition prize presentation ceremony for government primary schools nationwide at Lambak Kanan Primary School Multi-Purpose Hall yesterday.
Acting Director of Special Education Dr Haji Eddy Fazlin bin Haji Amdan in his welcoming speech said, “The ribbon shape found in the Down syndrome logo represents a symbol of awareness and support.
He said, “This shape is easily recognised as a symbol of advocacy and solidarity for individuals, families and organisations to show their support for Down syndrome awareness.
“The Down syndrome awareness ribbon also symbolises hope, participation and collective efforts to increase understanding, opportunity, and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome.”
“It aims to attract interest and hone the visual arts skills of students including students with special needs through drawing, colouring and collage making activities.”
He added, “One of the functions of the Special Education Department is to provide quality inclusive education for students with special needs through programmes and services that support the academic, social, emotional and life skills development of students so that they are ready for the future and able to contribute to the development of society and country.”
The event also witnessed a sharing session concerning Down syndrome by Paediatric Consultant and Head of Child Development Centre Dr Hajah Mawarni binti Haji Abdul Hamid.
The competition attracted 308 entries from 59 government primary schools nationwide including 89 entries from the collage category for pre-school and Year 1; 99 entries in the colouring category for Year 2 and 3 pupils; and 120 entries in the drawing category for Year 4, 5 and 6 students.
The competition, held for the first time, celebrates the unique abilities of children with special needs, foster creativity and improve public awareness of their contribution in the educational and social fields.
Acting Director of Planning, Development and Research Department Hajah Anis Faudzulani binti Haji Dzulkiflee was the guest of honour. – Fadhil Yunus
