Child with down syndrome rejected by 5 schools: Pres affirms commitment to equal opportunity

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said last night that he would personally look into the case of a Maldivian child with down syndrome who was reportedly denied admission by five different schools.

The President met Fathimath Sara, a young girl with down syndrome, and her mother, Fathimath Fairooza Adam, during the ‘Rayyithunge Adu’ program. During the meeting, Fairooza outlined the numerous challenges Sara has faced in accessing education and securing the support necessary for her overall well-being.

"Looking at private schools initially, five schools refused to enroll Sara between the ages of one and six, citing her disability as the reason," Fairooza said.

She further explained that although many of these schools promote themselves as inclusive institutions for children with special needs, they often prioritize students who demonstrate stronger academic performance. Despite the family having the financial means to afford private education, Sara was nevertheless denied access to these opportunities.

Following the rejections from private institutions, Fairooza sought to enroll Sara in government schools. However, she raised concerns over the shortage of adequately trained teachers capable of providing sufficient attention and support to students with special needs within the public education system. She called on the President to strengthen institutional arrangements and increase resources in government schools to better accommodate children with disabilities.

Sara is currently a fourth-grade student at Thaajuddeen School, where Fairooza said she has been making encouraging academic progress. Beyond the challenges associated with education, Fairooza also described the difficulties the family faces in accessing therapy, suitable housing, and other essential services required by children with disabilities.

In response to the concerns raised, President Muizzu assured Fairooza that all of the issues highlighted would be investigated thoroughly and without delay.

"This is not just about a specific child or a single family; it is a systemic issue. I want to ensure that our actions benefit everyone involved and the entire community," the President said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring equitable access to quality services for all Maldivian citizens. The President also thanked Fairooza for bringing the issues to his attention and for proposing potential solutions to the challenges faced by families in similar circumstances.

Concerns over discrimination and inadequate facilities and services for children with disabilities continue to persist in the Maldives, with many families calling for lasting solutions to address these institutional shortcomings.