Every child has a right to education and it is deeply concerning that to this day many children and young people are still not being given the additional support they need to access the education they deserve, the Nationalist Party said Tuesday.

The PN said it believes in the fundamental right of every child to learn and reach their full potential. Yet, there are still students who are being discriminated against in the education system due to a lack of adequate support.

During the last scholastic year, a large number of students were left without the Learning Support Educators (LSEs) they required to keep up with their peers. Others were repeatedly sent home when their LSEs were absent, while many remained on waiting lists for months on end.

Students with disabilities and learning difficulties now face uncertainty about the upcoming academic year. Some still don't know if they will have access to post-secondary education, the PN said.

Instead of taking responsibility and addressing this serious issue, the Government continues to turn a blind eye. Equality Minister Julia Farrugia has passed the buck to Education Minister Clifton Grima, when in reality, both are duty-bound to work together to strengthen the education system for students with disabilities and learning challenges.

The shortage of LSEs in our schools is a serious matter. This lack is directly impacting students with disabilities and their families. Each day without sufficient LSEs is another day children are denied their right to education. Parents remain worried and unsure, concerned that these gaps will hinder their children's academic and holistic development. Every day that goes by without these children receiving the support they need according to their abilities will have a negative impact on their future.

The PN reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive and fair education system where no one is left behind, regardless of the challenges they face. Inclusive education must remain a national priority, because every student has the right to appropriate support.

The PN called on the Government to move from frivolous words on inclusion to concrete action because inclusion should not be used as a buzzword to win votes.

It is the duty of the Ministry for Education to ensure that every child and young person receives the full education they are entitled to, with the resources required to meet their specific needs, the statement concluded.