For the third year running, CHIP International and the National Association of Private Special Schools in Ghana, comprising 15 private special needs/inclusion schools in the country, organized our 'Festival to Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion' to commemorate Autism Acceptance Month.

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The Festival is fast becoming an event favourite for participating schools, and this year's did not disappoint. There were the exhibition of art and crafts, skits, and dancing and drumming performances, all produced by the children of the participating schools. This year's festival had even more events -  sack race, bottle dipping, bead and basket weaving, group sensory circuit activities, a fashion show, and a talent show - again, all featuring children with special needs.

 

Children from neighbouring mainstream schools also attended and enjoyed being a part of the festivities, and the governmental Ghana Education Service Special Education Division was represented as well.. The educators and parents present were introduced to 'Huberta', an AI-powered virtual therapy assistant which can aid in early identification and behavioral management related to autism and other neurodiverse conditions.

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And of course, there was the teacher/caregiver dance-off, with new entrants Dawhenya Autism Centre winning the show hands-down!​​