The Principal of Milton Margai School for the Blind on Wilkinson Road, Sallieu Turay has told Premier News on Monday that the school and other special needs schools have for the first time after many years, received full one year subvention from the Government of Sierra Leone.
He made this statement during an outdoor visit by this medium to assess progress made to repair the Female Dormitory which was rendered useless because of fire outbreak in February. This medium observed that the burnt dormitory is currently under repairs.
Turay added that all subventions to special needs schools were paid after the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) held meetings with school heads, adding that during the meeting the Minister promised that yearly subventions are going to be paid to all special needs schools.
He also said that the early payment of subvention from government has put an end to the late reopening and closing of schools, adding that MBSSE has provided them with school bus. He said that discussions are ongoing to change the infrastructural phase of the schools.
“MBSSE through ‘Leh Wi Lan’ have provided embossers machines and other accessories which have resulted in better performance of children with special needs,” Turay said.
Turay also mentioned that MBSSE and WAEC has ensure that special needs students taking the WASSCE examination have the opportunity to write their exams in Brille, adding that it started last year and it is going to continue.
He highlighted that since the fire incident they have had support from government and private sector organizations.
He mentioned that Special Needs Schools and Government are in advance talk to change the phase of special needs education in Sierra Leone, adding that they want to see a turnaround of special needs education in the country.
By George M.O. Williams