The New Horizon Special School in Cantonments, Osu since 1972 has been dedicated to the education and development of children and adults with special needs and autism.
The school, founded by Mrs. Salome Francois of blessed memory is equipped with facilities which help the students to acquire special skills in kente weaving and crafts making.
Students in the school go through academic training with courses like Sensory Training, Physiotherapy and Speech Therapy tailored to their special needs and also to offer them life skills.
Their upcoming annual Fun Day Games, happening on May 23, 2025 aims to showcase the talents and sportsmanship of the special needs population in Ghana while advocating for fitness and sports for all.
During this event, all participants will be recognized as winners and will receive medals for their rewards, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and empowerment of individuals with special needs.
Speaking with Newswatchgh.com, Ms. Sylvia Francois, Board Chairperson of New Horizon Special School, highlighted the importance of games including Special children in activities that will make them empowered.
According to Ms. Francois, the school gives opportunities for the students to “bring to society the awareness of the existence and abilities of these special children, let the children know that they too can compete and that we are all winners and also to encourage other parents who think their situation is hopeless.”
She added that the school does not acquire government funding, emphasizing the need for support to these Special children who have acquired good vocational skills in the school.
Dr. George Francois, Interim Executive Director of the New Horizon Special School, also recognized the support of neighbouring schools, who promote inclusivity through their volunteer programs and urged the general public to support the school’s mission.
He said, “Part of our mission is to promote inclusivity, especially in terms of interactions between the general public and our special students. We congratulate schools like GIS, Lincoln, Faith Montessori, and St. Charbel, among others, for the volunteer programs they create to promote inclusivity, acceptance, and tolerance. We encourage institutions to reach out to us with ideas that promote inclusivity.”
The school also has a sheltered workshop curriculum that offers vocational skills to students including sewing, beading, basketry and doormat making.
These crafts and arts works by the students are presented to the general public during their annual Art Exhibition Show to create an environment of inclusivity and self-development in vocational skills.
Additionally their online shop, www.newhorizonschoolshop.com provides a range of crafts including weaved sashes, sewn bags, beaded accessories and Tie & Dye clothes.
The New Horizon Special School also offers Batik and Tie & Dye techniques and Kente weaving classes to the general public.
Interested persons can sign up via their email, nhorizonschoolshop@gmail.com and also opt for one of their discount packages for groups of up to 8 people.
By: Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com
