The Centre d’éducation spécialisée de Kébili, which provides specialized services to children with mental disabilities, is facing a persistent transportation crisis. According to Boubaker Chelbi, the center's director, 47 children are expected to attend the center this year, but their regular attendance is often compromised due to the lack of buses. The center, affiliated with the Union Tunisienne d'Aide aux Insuffisants Mentaux (UTAIM), was founded on February 22, 1987.
The transportation issue has been affecting the center for approximately 17 years, due to repeated breakdowns of the vehicles provided and the inability to finance repairs. The center's limited financial support does not cover additional expenses, such as school supplies, food, and utility bills. As a result, the center struggles to ensure the daily transportation of its residents to and from the facility.
The center's director, Boubaker Chelbi, emphasized that the lack of transportation hinders the center's ability to provide its specialized services to children with mental disabilities. He called on regional and central authorities, as well as civil society actors, to seek ways to strengthen financial support for specialized education centers. This would enable them to implement their programs and achieve their goal of integrating these children into their societal environment.
The Centre d’éducation spécialisée de Kébili is not only facing transportation challenges but also financial constraints. The center's limited budget affects its ability to provide essential services, including food, shelter, and medical care. Chelbi stressed that the center's financial struggles have a direct impact on the well-being and education of its residents.
The transportation crisis has been a recurring issue for the center, with Chelbi highlighting the need for a reliable and sustainable solution. He emphasized that the center's residents require regular attendance and uninterrupted services to benefit from the specialized education and care provided.
The Union Tunisienne d'Aide aux Insuffisants Mentaux (UTAIM) and other organizations have been working to support children with mental disabilities in Tunisia. However, the persistent challenges faced by the Centre d’éducation spécialisée de Kébili highlight the need for increased support and resources to ensure that these children receive the care and education they need.
The situation at the Centre d’éducation spécialisée de Kébili underscores the importance of addressing the transportation and financial challenges faced by specialized education centers in Tunisia. By working together, stakeholders can help ensure that children with mental disabilities have access to the services and support they need to thrive.
Key points
- The Centre d’éducation spécialisée de Kébili faces a persistent transportation crisis, affecting the attendance and well-being of its 47 residents.
- The center's limited financial support and lack of transportation hinder its ability to provide specialized services to children with mental disabilities.
- The center's director, Boubaker Chelbi, is calling on authorities and civil society actors to seek ways to strengthen financial support for specialized education centers.
