09 September 2005
Students With Physical Disabilities Get More Opportunities Through The New StarHub-SPD Learning and Development Centre
“Physically disabled students have to contend daily with issues like accessibility problems, social acceptance and integration with non-disabled students, on top of their academic studies. It can be a tremendous challenge for many to balance life’s priorities well. SPD's commitment to provide such students with the same opportunities for learning and living as non-disabled students is truly admirable and we are pleased to lend support to their efforts from the StarHub IDD Charity Fund through which one per cent of our IDD 008 and IDD 018 revenue is channeled for charitable works,” said Mr Yong Lum Sung, Chief Operating Officer, StarHub.
The programmes offered by the LDC will cover a broad range of content tailored to students with physical disabilities. These include creative writing, entrepreneurship, speech and drama, and stress management workshops. Participants can also look forward to outdoor activities such as camps, field trips and educational tours. Furthermore, as part of the Centre’s holistic approach to education, students are encouraged to participate in sporting events and competitions for disabled people. There are also plans to organise a soccer clinic, which will be open to non-disabled students as well. 400 training places will be offered over the next two years with the aim to promote integration, instill social confidence and enhance the general well being of students who are physically disabled.
SPD will partner established training centres to enhance the quality of the programmes, and ensure that the trainers give consideration to the students’ special needs. For the LDC’s first enrichment programme following its launch on 9 September, social workers worked with financial skills workshop trainer Ms Amy Lin, to tailor a programme that would take the financial, as well as the physical constraints of the students into consideration.
Parents and caregivers will also be able to attend workshops covering topics such as financial planning, understanding the local education system, and helping physically disabled children adjust to Primary 1, at the LDC. Programmes will be organised to provide support and assist them in maximising their child’s potential.