December 3 is an International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Paintings of pupils with special educational needs were exhibited in a “Special Gallery” opened in Tbilisi Public School #198. Minister of Education and Science of Georgia Tamar Sanikidze visited the exhibition.
There are 174 pupils with special educational needs in Tbilisi Public School #198. Important changes have been taking place since 2013: number of administrative-technical staff has increased, a speech therapist, a special teacher, rhythmic specialist and art therapist are available from 2013-2014 school year.
Only the first floor of the building was rehabilitated. The second floor has been rehabilitated this year. The school has heating system, rooms for art therapy and adapted physical training.
Inclusive education represents one of the main priorities of The Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia for 2013. The Ministry is implementing several important projects. Educational programs are adapted to the needs and abilities of the children. Every school with even one pupil with special educational needs is provided with a special teacher by the Ministry.