Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day: A Call for Inclusion in Schools

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Extract from the article: The primary objective of this conference was to raise awareness about the importance of including individuals with Down syndrome, particularly children, in schools. This event shed light on the challenges and issues related to Down syndrome and ....

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The world commemorated World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2024, highlighting a genetic condition that stands as the leading cause of genetic intellectual disability. To mark this event in Togo, the Mothers Friends of Children with Down Syndrome Association (AMAETRI), on March 21, 2024, in Lomé, in collaboration with the Togo Association of Speech Therapists (ASPOT), organized a critically important conference in Lomé, under the theme: "Down Syndrome and School Inclusion."

The primary objective of this conference was to raise awareness about the importance of including individuals with Down syndrome, particularly children, in schools. This event shed light on the challenges and issues related to Down syndrome and promoted a better understanding of differences.

The president of AMAETRI, Mrs. Agbassi Tatchein, emphasized in her opening remarks the importance of recognizing and valuing the abilities of children with Down syndrome. She called for "a more inclusive society, where every individual, regardless of differences, can fully contribute and benefit from the same opportunities. These children deserve quality education and the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive environment," said the president.

The conference brought together a diverse audience, including parents of children with Down syndrome, education professionals, and healthcare professionals. Speakers shared their experiences, best practices, and recommendations to promote true inclusion of children with Down syndrome in Togolese schools.

Two presentations followed during the conference. The first, titled "Down Syndrome: Health Challenges and Perspectives," was led by Dr. Hemou Manani, a pediatrician. Dr. Manani shared medical insights into Down syndrome, highlighting the challenges faced by children with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers, as well as care strategies.

The second presentation, delivered by Emmanuel Etongnon, a speech therapist and education scientist, focused on "School Inclusion of Children with Down Syndrome." The specialist emphasized the importance of including children with Down syndrome in the educational system, highlighting the benefits for both children with Down syndrome and their non-disabled peers. He also shared practical strategies to promote successful inclusion in school settings.

Raymond DZAKPATA