A SCHOOL catering to children with special needs in Masantol town was finally granted a permit by the Department of Education (DepEd).
The facility, dubbed Lingap Learning Center, was established back in 2017 by the local government and private sector partner NM Arts and Technology Institute Inc. (NMATII).
Its aim is to tap the multiple intelligences of children with special needs through specific skills and knowledge training.
In the past years, NMATII executive director Leng Nojadera said students only received certifications from the local government after graduating from their sessions.
The coming years, however, will be different, as graduates will finally receive a diploma from DepEd, according to Nojadera.
"Although our main goal is to equip the children with the basic survival skills such as knowing their names and how to present themselves in public, it is still better if they will receive a diploma after weeks of hard work," she said.
Mayor Danilo Guintu, for his part, said the DepEd certification is a boost in the local government's goal of providing better opportunities to all Masantoleños, including those with special needs.
"The DepEd diplomas will not only provide a sense of fulfillment for both students and parents, but will also open up lots of opportunities for the children who are now physically and mentally skilled," he said.
He urged parents to continue assisting and believing in the capabilities of their children so the local government can continue helping them.
"We thank you for your patience and your love for the children, and for letting us help you create a better future for them," he said.