Brava Educational System ignores children with special educational needs - hopelessness and fear of speaking out reign among mothers
City of Nova Sintra, September 10, 2024 (Bravanews) - In Brava, a growing problem is causing great concern among parents: the lack of an adequate education system for children with special educational needs. The reality of these families is marked by a lack of essential support and, in some cases, a hostile and threatening environment for those who dare to raise their voices in search of help.
According to local sources, the resource room, which previously provided specialized support for these children, has been closed. As a result, children with special needs have been left without the support they need, facing even greater difficulties in the school environment.
The closure of the resource room has created a feeling of abandonment among parents and guardians, who fear that their children are not receiving adequate attention and care. The lack of trained professionals and specific resources worsens the situation, leaving children to fend for themselves.
In recent days, Bravanews has received worrying reports from mothers who felt compelled to seek help due to the lack of adequate conditions in schools for their children with special educational needs. However, most of these mothers have chosen to remain anonymous, fearing reprisals and negative consequences for their families. This fear is not unfounded, as in a recent case, Bravanews reported that a courageous mother who decided to speak out publicly was directly approached by education officials on the island and, according to reports, was even threatened.
The situation is described as desperate by those directly affected. The lack of resources, specialized training and adequate support for children with special educational needs is so glaring that several families are considering leaving the island in search of better support conditions elsewhere. The situation has generated a feeling of abandonment and helplessness among parents, who feel that the education system is not fulfilling its fundamental role of inclusion and support.
While the voices of protest continue to be silenced by fear and retaliation, the community awaits an effective response from local authorities. The pressure on those responsible on Brava Island to implement meaningful changes and ensure that all children, regardless of their special needs, have access to a quality and inclusive education, continues to increase.
The call is clear: urgent action is needed to ensure that all children on Brava have the support and resources they need to reach their full potential. The community hopes that the authorities will recognize the gravity of the situation and take the necessary action to address this educational crisis. Until then, the future of many children and the community’s trust in the island’s education system remain uncertain.