| Azaraimy HH |
A 14-MEMBER delegation from Flinders University in Adelaide are currently in the Sultanate for a work placement at the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei, under the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan.
They are the third group from the Flinders University Disability and Community Inclusion Unit to collaborate with the local non-government organisation (NGO) since the initiative was launched in 2014.
Over the next three weeks, the university students and officials will be working closely with therapists and disability care experts to gain a better understanding of SMARTER Brunei’s innovative approach to autism care.
The delegation joined SMARTER’s Family Day at the Tumpuan Telisai Recreational Park yesterday, facilitating activities to help autistic individuals adapt to the wider community.
Over 100 students, family members and SMARTER officials participated in the event, which included activities such as a treasure hunt, tug-of-war, sack race and obstacle course relay. The winners received prizes from Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam cum guest of honour Nicola Rosenblum and SMARTER Brunei Founder and President Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman.
“The New Colombo Plan is helping the next generation of Australian leaders to learn more about the region by supporting students to study and undertake internships. It complements the thousands of students from the region choosing the study in Australia each year,” Rosenblum said, adding that the initiative will have supported more than 30,000 Australian students in 35 locations, including 84 in Brunei Darussalam by the end of 2018.
Flinders University student Jonathan Legg, who is pursuing a double degree in Primary Education and Disability Studies, said he was eager to explore how other cultures have adapted their practices to cater to the educational needs of people with autism.
Meanwhile, Malai Haji Abdullah said, “SMARTER Brunei is honoured to host another group from Flinders University through the prestigious New Colombo Plan. We are looking forward to sharing our Welcoming, Inviting, Supporting and Encouraging (WISE) Strategy in managing and caring for individuals with autism”.
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