The Specialized Education Center in Qibili, Tunisia, is facing significant challenges in providing daily transportation for its 47 students. The center, which was established on February 22, 1987, is affiliated with the Tunisian Union for Assistance to People with Intellectual Disabilities. According to the center's director, Bouabaker Chelbi, the lack of a bus has been a persistent issue for years, hindering the center's ability to ensure regular attendance for all students.
The center's transportation issues date back nearly 17 years, with repeated breakdowns of buses previously available to the institution. Despite efforts to address the problem, the center has been unable to secure a reliable means of transportation due to limited financial resources. The center's budget is insufficient to cover additional expenses, including repairs, educational materials, and utilities.
The center's primary objective is to provide specialized care and support to children with intellectual disabilities. However, the transportation challenges are affecting the center's ability to achieve this goal. Chelbi emphasized that the center's services are essential for the social integration of these children, and that a reliable transportation system is crucial for their daily attendance.
The center's director has called on regional and national authorities, as well as civil society organizations, to provide additional financial support to address the transportation issue. Chelbi stressed that increased funding would enable the center to provide a comprehensive program of care and support for children with intellectual disabilities, ultimately facilitating their integration into society.
The Specialized Education Center in Qibili is not alone in facing challenges related to transportation and funding. Many centers providing services to children with disabilities in Tunisia face similar issues, highlighting the need for increased support and resources to address these challenges.
The center's staff and management are committed to providing high-quality services to children with intellectual disabilities, despite the challenges they face. The center's work is essential for promoting social inclusion and equal opportunities for these children, and its staff continue to advocate for increased support and resources.
The issue of transportation for children with disabilities is a critical concern in Tunisia, with many families and organizations calling for improved services and support. The Specialized Education Center in Qibili's experience highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of children with disabilities, including transportation, education, and social support.
Key points
- The center's lack of a bus has been a persistent issue for years, affecting the daily attendance of its 47 students.
- The center's limited financial resources have hindered its ability to secure a reliable means of transportation.
- The center's director has called on authorities and organizations to provide additional financial support to address the transportation issue.
