In pursuit of an all-inclusive policy in the education sector, a concerted effort is underway to improve the service accessed by children with special needs.

The Ministry of Education, assisted by the Chief Education Officer of the Trinidad National Centre for Persons with Disabilities, evaluated the programs at the various special schools on island. The aim of the exercise is to have students trained and integrated into the workforce as seamlessly as possible.

Beverly Beckles of the Trinidad National Centre for Persons with Disabilities held discussions with teachers and principals and said her input is not to provide a carbon copy of what exists in Trinidad. Ms Beckles believes that Saint Lucia must tailor programs that are market specific to its locality.

Colvis Samuel, Education Officer for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) said the Unit is eager to collaborate with the National Council of and for persons with disabilities.

Recommendations from the three-day visit by Beverly Beckles are expected to form part of a strategic paper for stakeholder consultations.