“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.” (Mother Teresa)
The Uspenskoye School for children with learning disabilities in Kirov, Russia has embarked on a journey with QNET and RYTHM Foundation to build a better future for its students with special educational needs.
This whole idea was initiated by QNET’s Independent Representatives (IRs) in Kirov, some compassionate individuals with big dreams. Having spent some time with the children at the school, they found that they are in great need of basic essential needs, and a new playground.
A lack of equipment and a lack of motivation – even if those were available, are the main barriers to physical activity for children with special educational needs.
With QNET’s support, the school is now building a fully-equipped playground, complete with sports and exercise equipment that will benefit 72 pupils and 29 teachers. QNET and RYTHM Foundation hope that with this project, these children will be able to integrate smoothly into society and have the right to education that will positively motivate them to live an empowered and active life.
Typically in Russia, children with special education needs are educated in day institutes, boarding schools or by private tutors. Efforts are being made to use the Internet and involve disabled children in distance learning, but options lag behind other countries.
Since the 1990s, with the emergence of disability and parents’ non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the passage of disability legislation, significant changes have occurred to improve the quality of life for people with learning disabilities. Today, employment programmes for disabled people and a handful of integrated educational programmes have been launched in several Russian cities.
Despite these positive changes, disabled people in Russia still face daily challenges. However, if companies like QNET put in more effort to give back to society, their stories could be different. In fact, it would be a game changer. QNET’s charitable arm, the RYTHM Foundation, continues to empower marginalised children in any way it can.
Remember, a simple act of kindness such as donating sweets means a lot to children and will help them to be more positive in life.
