Education Minister Rosy Akbar

Most teachers and educators have been ignorant of the visual challenges children with albinism face in the classroom.

Education Minister Rosy Akbar, reveals sometimes complaints from children with albinism are ignored and these include unable to see the writing board or even being bullied.

Speaking at an Albinism Workshop for teachers in Vatuwaqa, Suva today – Akbar says the welfare and development of persons with this disability depend upon education.

“So if you can assure all Fijians that as teachers you will not discriminate any children based on disability then I think that will be a pledge from you we very much welcome. Since 1967 – Fiji has provided education for many children with disabilities including those with albinism through the special and mainstream schools.”

Akbar adds there’s been an increase in the enrollment of children with special needs over the years.

“On FEMIS count, a total of 1149 children with disabilities are attending the special schools, 143 are in the inclusive schools, totaling up to 1292 compared to 1153 in 2018 and 1149 in 2017.”

The two-day workshop focuses on empowering and providing teachers with information on how to facilitate students with albinism.