The Integrated Education Programme (IEP), on Friday concluded a two-day training workshop for cluster monitors in Regions One and Two at the GOVI conference hall in Kanifing.

The workshop which was sponsored by Sight Savers International (SSI), was designed to enlighten the cluster monitors, create awareness and use the monitors to influence a positive change of attitude among themselves for the blind and low vision persons.

In her welcoming remarks, Ramou Riley, IEP coordinator said the project was established in February, 2007, with the objective of providing education and habilitation services to the blind and low vision children.

‘‘As part of realising our objectives, Sight Savers International is providing funding to meet the needs of blind and low vision children and that the implementation of the IEP, which is designed to provide educational services to the blind and low vision children in Regions One and Two is also an important part of this process,’’ she indicated. Mrs Riley also expressed hope that the workshop participants will endeavour to work with the IEP for the successful implementation of its planned activities and programmes.

Officially declaring the workshop open, Anna Nancy Mendy, representing the Director of Education, Region One, said the Department of State for Education in its bid to ensure that no individual is excluded from reaping the benefits of education, highlights equitable access to basic senior tertiary and higher education in underserved regions, girls and other disadvantaged groups.

According to her, special education calls for a radical and holistic change in attitude, misconceptions about individuals with special needs, adding that the IEP is an ambitious programme that requires a change in attitude and the participation and dedication of all stakeholders for its success.

She finally expressed hope that the cluster monitors will make a positive impact in the lives of such vulnerable groups by properly monitoring teachers that handle them.

Presentations were made on the aims, objectives and operational structures of the IEP by Momodou Camara, finance officer.  The key players of the IEP and their functions at regional level was another presentation made by Anna Nancy Mendy.

In his closing remarks at the end of the workshop, Momodou Camara, IEP finance officer, thanked the cluster monitors for positively responding to their call. He expressed hope that this training will mark the beginning of a fruitful working relationship between the IEP and cluster monitors in development.

While urging them to deliver as expected, Mr Camara also promised to push forward the cluster monitors agenda to the high table, where decisions are made.

Mrs Ramou S. Riley, National Coordinator of IEP, also expressed similar sentiments. Muhammed Kora, President of GOVI, chaired the ceremony and Sira Njie Singhateh, cluster monitor, Region One and also a participant delivered the vote of thanks.