World Bank launches 1st KDC in WV
World Bank launches its first Region VI university-based Knowledge for Development Center (KDC) at Central Philippine University (CPU), yesterday.
In partnership with Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, And Empowerment of the Visually Impaired (ATRIEV) computer school for blind, CPU-KDC is a center for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) that endeavors to provide easy access of information to disabled persons.
Bert Hofman, World Bank Country Director said that the KDC will provide better access of information and quality education to the poor and the disadvantaged. They will strengthen the PWDs to participate in development and to strengthen the human capital.
With the KDC, the disabled, specifically the blind, will not be excluded from the available information through the use of modern adaptive equipment and facilities. It will also offer training on the use of assistive devices, as well as outreach activities to help the educators assist the PWDs on the use of devices and become more sensitive to their needs.
With the theme ‘Inclusive Education: Achieving Education for All’, the event tapped officials from different sectors for their support in educating the PWDs.
According to Carol Catacutan, Training Director of ATRIEV, Iloilo has a positive response towards educating those persons with disabilities.
“The support of government officials and other institutions is evident,” she added.
The event’s highlight is the Message of Support for Inclusive Education from the representatives of Division of Iloilo, CHED Region 6, Iloilo Social Welfare Development Office, and from the Provincial and City government.
Together with other 11 KDCs in the country, CPU-KDC will equip the PWDs in the region.
“We are pleased to be a part of the many KDCs in the country that have facilities for persons with disabilities. Our KDC is now a place where we hope to see the blind ‘read’, where parents and other caregivers find information about nurturing children with learning disabilities, and which people on wheelchairs can access freely. What’s even more important is that the KDC can be a social hub where the PWD’s can come for participatory dialogue, network with other sectors, and building partnerships,” said Dr. Teodoro Robles, CPU President.
CPU-KDC is located on the Ground Floor, Henry Luce III Library of CPU.