In a commitment to enhance equal learning opportunities, Taylor’s College has introduced an initiative to strengthen special education at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bingkor in Keningau, Sabah. Collaborating with the recipient of the RISE Educator Award 2023, Velerie Wheeleveron Primus, Taylor’s is backing the ‘Integrated Sensory Therapy Room and Snoezelen Project’ at the school to support students with special needs. Josephine Tan, Taylor’s College Campus Director, stated, “As we strive to be not only the world's top tertiary institution but also one that contributes positively to the world, we understand that education is fundamental to lifelong success. Taylor’s believes that investing in initiatives like these acts as a catalyst for significant change, benefiting not only the students and the school but also the broader education ecosystem of the nation."
It establishes the groundwork for a society that is more empowered, informed, and prosperous. The 'Integrated Sensory Therapy Room and Snoezelen Project' reflects our dedication to reshaping education and promoting an inclusive and transformative learning atmosphere. The financial support for this initiative is particularly crucial at a time when there is a pressing requirement for a specialized learning facility to cater to the needs of special education in Sabah.
UNICEF's report titled "Children Out of School: The Sabah Context" (2017) concluded that while Malaysia provides diverse education options for children with physical and learning disabilities, these facilities are predominantly situated in urban areas, posing challenges for disabled children in rural regions to access schools. The report also highlighted that despite the presence of special education systems, not all children with disabilities receive the necessary interventions or tailored learning due to issues such as insufficient infrastructure and limited access to assistive technology. Specifically in Keningau, Sabah, Velerie observed that there were limited special education facilities, particularly when it came to accommodating students with conditions like autism and ADHD within the same classroom.
