Legislators are advocating for a long-term national strategy to empower Bahrainis with Down syndrome.
A group of five MPs, led by Mohammed Al Olaiwi, has submitted a proposal calling for a comprehensive plan to support citizens with the genetic condition through education, training and meaningful employment.
The initiative aims to establish a structured, future‑focused roadmap that begins in the classroom and continues through to the workplace – ensuring individuals with the syndrome are equipped with skills, opportunities and pathways to fully realise their potential as active contributors to society.
Mr Al Olaiwi stressed that the initiative is about shifting perceptions as much as policies.
“We are not dealing with limitations, but with capabilities that need the right environment to flourish,” he said.
“This proposal is about building a system that supports Bahrainis with Down syndrome – from early education all the way to the workforce.”
He highlighted that effective education hinges on tailored teaching approaches, including visual learning tools, structured lessons and consistent routines.
“Students with Down syndrome respond exceptionally well to visual aids, step-by-step instruction and interactive learning,” he added.
“With the right support, they can achieve far beyond what is often expected.”
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that happens when a child is born with an extra chromosome, occurring in about one in 1,000 babies born worldwide.
The extra chromosome affects the way the child’s brain and body develop, leading to developmental delays, intellectual disability and an increased risk for certain medical issues.
Co-signee MP Dr Mahdi Al Shuwaikh underlined the importance of strengthening inclusive education frameworks across government schools.
“We need to ensure that inclusion is not just a concept, but a fully implemented practice,” he said.
“This means well-trained teachers, dedicated teaching assistants and continuous monitoring of each student’s progress.”
He noted that both mainstream and specialised school settings should be equipped to cater to varying needs, with clear transition plans into vocational training.
Another co-signee Dr Muneer Suroor focused on the long-term economic and social impact of the proposal, particularly in employment.
“Our goal is sustainability,” he said. “We want to move from education into real job opportunities, empowering individuals to contribute to the national economy and live independently.”
He added that collaboration between ministries, private sector stakeholders and civil society organisations would be essential.
The MPs pointed out that students with Down syndrome often thrive in structured, predictable environments where tasks are broken into manageable steps and supported by strong peer interaction.
They also emphasised the importance of maintaining high expectations, noting that students frequently rise to the standards set for them.
The proposal calls for clear inclusion policies, regular co-ordination between teachers and assistants, and curriculum adjustments to ensure no student is left behind. It will be scheduled for debate next week.
According to figures released by the Education Ministry, 67 schools serve 382 students with mild intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome, supported by 125 teachers.
With regard to autism spectrum disorder, 51 schools accommodate 286 students in specialised autism programmes and 154 fully integrated pupils under the supervision of 126 teachers.
A total of 264 students with physical disabilities, 321 with hearing impairments and 93 with visual impairments have also been integrated across all government schools.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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