UNS – As a campus that cares about inclusive education, the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta visited the Anugerah Special School (SLB) located in Kepoh, Tohudan, Colomadu, Karanganyar. The visit took place on Saturday (March 30, 2024) led by the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Research, and Student Affairs of FMIPA UNS, Prof. Dr. Fitria Rahmawati, S.Si., M.Si.

In her remarks, Prof. Fitria stated that the purpose of the visit to SLB Anugerah was to foster camaraderie and enhance FMIPA’s concern for inclusive education.

“Our presence and delegation are for fostering camaraderie and increasing our concern for inclusive education,” Prof. Fitria said.

The delegation, consisting of the Vice Dean of FMIPA UNS, the Chairperson of the FMIPA UNS Mosque Board, Dr. Siswanto, M.Si., several lecturers, and students, was welcomed by the Headmaster of SLB Anugerah, Erna Eka Sari, S.Pd. SLB Anugerah is a school for Children with Special Needs (ABK). Established in 2007, it currently has 52 students, all of whom reside in the dormitory.

As stated by Erna, the existence of SLB Anugerah is now recognized by the government, and several companies have entrusted their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to be managed by the school. Erna also mentioned that the focus of education at SLB Anugerah is currently on enabling children to be independent in daily activities, such as eating, personal hygiene, dressing, and more. Only after that do they start learning to read and write.

“We express our gratitude to FMIPA for visiting and assisting us. Your concern is a motivation for us,” Erna expressed to the delegation.

The visit concluded with a tour of the classrooms and dormitory rooms. They also observed the activities of children with special needs, each with their own unique qualities. HUMAS UNS

Editor: Dwi Hastuti