EDUCATION OF DISABLED CHILDREN (Special programme)

Dr S. Vasoo asked the Minister for Education what plans his Ministry has to strengthen the special education programme for disabled children under the promotion of excellence in education.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education (Mr Tang Guan Seng) (for the Minister for Education): Mr Speaker, Sir, I am replying on behalf of the Minister.

Government will provide the Singapore Council of Social Service with an annual grant pegged to the per capita cost of educating pupils in primary schools for the provision of special education to disabled children in special schools run by voluntary organizations.

Government will allocate suitable government buildings at nominal rent to the voluntary organizations for use as special schools. The buildings will be appropriately renovated by the Government.

The Institute of Education has been providing a training course for the teachers in special schools. The course leads to the award of the Certificate in Special Education. Professional and educational support and advice currently provided by the Ministry of Education to special schools will continue to be provided.

The grant together with the provision of suitable government buildings and the IE special education training programmes will help considerably to strengthen and upgrade education in special schools.

Dr S. Vasoo (Bo Wen): Sir, will special education continue to be the responsibility of MOE?

Mr Tang Guan Seng: The Ministry believes that the voluntary organizations are in a better position to cater to the special needs of this special group of pupils. With this annual grant arrangement, the situation will be monitored closely by the Ministry and assistance will be provided where necessary.