(MENAFN- The Peninsula) fazeena saleem |
The Peninsula
Based on a mission to integrate every student with the community, Qatar Foundation's Awsaj Academy offers the 'Empower Program' - a unique initiative designed to meet the needs of individuals with specific challenges, including autism and Down Syndrome.
Awsaj Academy students become part of the programme after a selection process led by the admissions team. The selected students are being offered personalised support designed for their specific needs in an environment conducive to their growth and development.
'Empower Program' was launched three years ago and this year, three students graduated from the programme and took part in the first Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony.
“The Empower Program accompanies students on their educational journey, from primary to secondary education, through classrooms of five to eight students,” said Bryttani K Myles, a teacher at Awsaj Academy, part of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE).
To assess progress, the 'Empower Program' exposes the students to real-world scenarios, through field trips to places such as cafes and restaurants where they are encouraged to order food and interact with service staff.
“In this way, we measure their progress across academics, social skills, behaviour, and emotional well-being. And this comprehensive assessment ensures that we consider all aspects of their development,” said Myles.
The 'Empower Program' provides students with a smooth transition from primary to secondary education. The staff of about 12 teachers for students from Grade 1 to Grade 12, attempt to create a supportive learning environment.
“We strive to provide our students with the skills and self-confidence needed to succeed in both academic and real life. The 'Empower Program' is evidence of our dedication to inclusive education and providing opportunities for all students to reach their full potential,” Myles said.
According to her, Hashim Al Khusaie, who has autism, and is one of the three students who graduated this year, represents the transformative impact of the 'Empower Program.'
“Through our holistic approach, he not only developed his verbal skills but also refined his social skills,” Myles said.
During his time at Awsaj Academy, Al Khusaie participated in several activities and initiatives. He also completed a training course at the Awsaj Academy library, which helped to improve his reading skills and encouraged him to become a passionate reader – and he now aspires to become an author and illustrator of children's books in the future.
“I learned a lot through my work in the Awsaj Academy library. I read, organized books, and helped with archival tasks. I became very fond of reading, and I built a large library in our house that includes children's stories and science fiction,” said Al Khusaie.
Speaking about leaving the school, which allowed him to learn, build friendships, and improve a variety of skills Al Khusaie said,“I love Awsaj Academy very much. I have wonderful friends and teachers. Here I have learned mathematics and how to improve my reading. I also learned how to communicate with people better. I am very sad that I am leaving.”
Donna Abas, mother of Al Khusaie highlighted the improvement in her son's speech abilities and said,“When my son joined Awsaj Academy, he had difficulties in pronunciation, and he was communicating through instructional cards. Thanks to the support and motivation provided by the school, he is now able to express himself better and communicate well.”
Awsaj Academy was one of seven schools that took part in the first Qatar Foundation Schools Commencement Ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of 249 graduates recently.