Eight children graduated from the Early Intervention program on the 15th of November during a ceremony at the Vanuatu Society for people with Disability Centre. The program supports children with disabilities from Zero to Six years old and helps them transition into regular education.

Six of the graduates will attend Pikinini Play Time for kindergarten, one will go to Central School and another child to Victory school in Blacksands which is closer to their homes. This graduation is significant as it marks the first time children have been directly placed in schools after completing the program, rather than being referred elsewhere.

Mrs Judith Iakavei, program Manager, noted the challenges of convincing schools to accept children with disabilities. Pikinini Play Time was the first school to welcome these children. Over the years, more children have participated in the program, attending classes regularly and engaging with their peers.

The Early Intervention program runs classes in three locations each week, including Melemaat, Anamburu, and Erakor Catholic Church. It is funded by Vanuatu Skills Partnership. This graduation marks a step forward for the children and their families in accessing education.