26-07-16 Special Education programme supports induction in the regular school system

In the ongoing effort to expand and bolster special education, a 4.75 million programme, under the umbrella of the EU Operational Programme “Human Resources Development, Education and Life Lifelong Learning 2014-2020” (National Strategic Reference Framework funding), will support induction programmes for students with disabilities at 145 special education facilities nationwide.

The project’s main axes entail the development of support structures for the induction and inclusion in the regular educational system of students with disabilities or special education needs, for the 2016-2017 school year.”

Objectives of the Action

This action entails the modernisation and support of education for students with disabilities and/or special education needs, by restructuring the role of Special Education Schools, and their conversion into Centres for the Support of Special Education (EAE), the creation of School Education and Support Networks, and the operation of Committees of Diagnostic Educational Evaluation (EDEAY).

 The above changes aim to determine in a timely manner the special education needs and development of students, in part through referrals to the competent Centres for Differential Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Support (KEDDY), which issues a report with recommendations in cases where, despite the special education support mechanisms, students continue to have learning or behavioural difficulties, or problems with induction in the regular school environment.

For all of the above actions, the ministry is hiring the necessary Special Education personnel  to staff the support centres (EAE), the education and support networks,  so that they may comprise the Committees of Diagnostic Educational Evaluation (EDEAY).

In addition, the Centres for Differential Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Support (KEDDY) will be staffed by Specialised Educational Personnel (EEP).