Celebrating Diversity is this year’s chosen theme to celebrate the second anniversary of World Down’s Syndrome Day that falls today – 21 March. Down’s Syndrome International (DSI) chose the date to signify the uniqueness of Down’s Syndrome in the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome and is used synonymously with Down’s Syndrome. The Down’s Syndrome Association is taking this opportunity to continue creating awareness about Down’s Syndrome and promote acceptance of diversity.

The new committee, which was appointed last April, has been working with, and putting pressure on, the authorities concerned for children to benefit from good quality education.

The association pointed out that there is still no adult education for children after they leave school. At this stage, they added, persons who have Down’s Syndrome still have a lot to learn and the ability to do so.

The Down’s Syndrome Association, in collaboration with the Eden Foundation, has initiated a two-year transition programme, from secondary school to employment training, which is funded by the parents of the students who are benefiting from the programme.

Adult education is offered by the State but not to children with Down’s Syndrome as they need more time to learn due to their condition.

The authorities need to listen to these youngsters, said the association.

They need more time to learn more, they want to learn more and they have the ability to do so.

“They just want to be given the opportunity to be prepared for adult life so as to access the labour market like their peers,” they said.