Botswana: The Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education has come together to commemorate World Down Syndrome Day. The officials have shared that thee World Down Syndrome Day was commemorated with the aim to recognize the children born with an extra copy of Chromosome 21.
The extra chromosome present in a small section of the population, can lead to developmental delays. The children with down syndrome have several physical and mental development challenges.
Often, children with down syndrome can face health issues associated with weaker than average immune system. These children also face discrimination due to the lack of support and information.
The Botswana Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education hosted the event through the Department of Learner Support Services (DLSS). The Ministry and its partners commemorated individuals with Down syndrome with a event.
The theme of the programme was, “Improve our support systems”. This theme reminds participants and the world at large that improving health care, education and community inclusion is key to empowering lives of the people born with Down syndrome.
The Ministry started the commemoration of the World Down Syndrome day with informing the people about the genetic disorder, The condition occurs when a person has an extra copy of twenty –one chromosome. This extra copy of chromosomes affect development and can lead to lifelong issues.
As such children with down syndrome are in need of support from the members of the community. The Acting Director for the Department of Learner Support Services, Rejoice Ramokate welcomed the participants of the commemoration event for World Down Syndrome Day.
She said this day is a special one for several reasons. She highlighted that people with Down syndrome are unique and should be appreciated and celebrated.
The Acting Director further emphasized that the objective of the day is to raise awareness on Down syndrome in the community, to advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to celebrate the lives and achievements of the people with Down syndrome.