Dorothy Springer Trust (DST) has organized a 1-day recreational sport for CYwDs.
Three (3) schools participated in a 1-day recreational sport for Children’s & Youngsters with Disabilities (CYwDs) & non-disabled children, on Sat, 25th March 2023, at the Bishop Johnson Memorial field, Freetown.
The (3) schools that participated in this 1-day recreational sport are Freetown Cheshire Primary School, Bishop Crowther Primary School, & Cathedral Primary School. These 3 schools are part of the school club established by DST to advocate for the radical inclusion policy.
This event is in line with the Child Empowerment Program (CEP) funded by the Liliane Foundation & supported by One Family People (OFP). This 1-day recreational sport captured one of the components of the Community Based rehabilitation (CBR) in the child empowerment program, namely, the “social inclusion” component. The well-attended sport addressed issues of segregation & discrimination against children & youngsters living with disabilities & also demonstrated that whatever non-disabled children can do, CYwDs can also do.
Addressing spectators, the CEO of the Dorothy Springer Trust, Dr. Abs Dumbuya explained the significance of the recreational sport. He said the event is a way of strengthening the school clubs that were established in five different schools to advocate for the inclusion of children & youngsters with disabilities to be included in all school activities. He also expressed thanks and appreciation to everyone for gracing the occasion. “I am looking forward to creating more platforms for the inclusion of PwDs,” he concluded.
Speaking to the spectators, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) expressed his profound thanks & appreciation to DST for extending such an invitation to him. He said he admires DST & its donors for creating an inclusive society for all. He added that his office is also making an effort to ensure persons living with disabilities are not left out in society.
The Program Manager of One Family People, Mr. Samuel POV Macauley said he is proud of DST as their partner organization & encourages them to continue their good work in making sure CYwDs have space in society. He assured DST of their continued support.
Certificates were issued to individuals & the school that clinched the trophy. Freetown Cheshire Primary School became the champion of the 1-day recreational sport followed by Bishop Crowther Primary School as runners-up. The inter-school sport ended in a very good atmosphere & with much anticipation to attend the next recreational sports event.
