Vice-President supports New Horizon Special School - Calls for shared national commitment to inclusion

The Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for a shared national commitment to inclusion, stressing that the country’s development must reflect the needs and potential of every child, regardless of ability.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting inclusion and equal opportunities for all children.

At the annual Fun Day and Games of the New Horizon Special School in Accra last Friday, where children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum participated, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said inclusion must move beyond policy statements to practical support and shared responsibility.

As part of this effort, she donated sanitary and hygiene supplies to the school to support the welfare of learners and staff.

The items included boxes of soap, boxes of sanitary pads and bags of washing soap to improve hygiene and sanitation at the school.

“Our national progress will be meaningful only when every child is given the opportunity to thrive. Inclusion is not charity; it is a responsibility we owe to one another,” she said.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang praised the learners for their resilience and confidence.

The items presented

“When we create spaces where differences are embraced, we unlock potential that benefits the whole nation.

These children remind us that ability is not defined by limitation,” she said.

She commended the school’s management and staff for their dedication to empowering children with special needs, describing their work as central to building a more compassionate and equitable society.

“Dignity begins with care. Every child deserves a safe and supportive learning environment,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said. 

Background

New Horizon School is a learning facility where children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum, access education and training.

It provides a special type of education and vocational training for children and adults with special needs.

The school’s annual Fun Day and Games brought together children with special needs, teachers, caregivers and parents for a day of sporting activities and celebration.

The event was held on the theme: “Run the Race with Endurance”.

The pupils took part in activities such as a 60-metre race, sack race, bottle-filling challenge and wheelchair race.

All participating children were awarded gold medals.

Sanitary supplies

The Vice-President said access to basic sanitary supplies was essential to safeguarding the health and dignity of children, particularly in special learning environments.

“Access to basic sanitary supplies is not a luxury; it is essential to the health, dignity and confidence of our children. When we invest in their well-being, we strengthen their ability to learn and thrive,” she said.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended the school’s management and staff for their commitment to nurturing and empowering children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum.

She encouraged participants to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals.

“Each of you is running your race with courage and determination. Do not give up. Keep moving forward with endurance, knowing that your efforts matter,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang added.

Appreciation

The management of the New Horizon Special School expressed appreciation for the support, describing the donation as timely and impactful in strengthening hygiene standards at the facility.