Oct 6, 2006 Special education: MOE should play leading role
I WOULD like to contribute to the debate on the state of special education in Singapore. I am appalled that the Ministry of Education (MOE) feels justified in playing just a supporting role where students with special needs are concerned. Isn't educating Singaporeans the responsibility of the Government, regardless of race, language, religion - and ability? Isn't that the basis of equality as per our national pledge? The principle of the matter is this: if special-education students are Singaporeans, then they should be treated like all other Singaporeans. MOE has to step up to the plate and play the principal role in educating these children. The National Council of Social Service and voluntary welfare organisations should play supporting roles as they rely on charity. These roles should not be reversed. It is the responsibility of MOE to educate Singaporean children. For it to play a lesser role in the education of any segment of Singaporean society is discriminatory. Meritocracy is one in which a student can advance based on ability and achievement. Children who have special needs are already disadvantaged in life, compared to those who are developing normally or are gifted. When MOE fails to extend to them its full support, they are denied the chance to develop their potential to the fullest, and to integrate and be contributing members of society. Why should schools like Pathlight follow the MOE curriculum if they are not the direct responsibility of MOE? Are they obligated to? Do they not desire their students to integrate with mainstream Singaporeans? MOE should heed what these schools want for their students. It is unfortunate that in a country that strives to be world class, parents have to worry that their special-needs children's education is not secure. MOE should rethink its position on the education of children born with disabilities, whose parents strive to provide them with the best education they can afford with the limited resources afforded to them.
