Dr. Chua Ying Hwee, CEO and Principal of KLC International Institute Singapore, was invited to deliver a keynote at the 2024 Taiwan Symposium for Special Education, themed “The Present and Future of Inclusive Education” (融合教育的現在與未來). This global gathering, in celebration of Taiwan’s 40-year journey in Special Education, united trailblazing educators and experts from Taiwan, Singapore, Canada, and Australia, sharing bold ideas and groundbreaking practices to create a more inclusive future for all learners.

Lighting the Way for Inclusive Education

Dr. Chua’s keynote address shared Singapore’s journey toward inclusive education, structured around three segments:

1. Recognizing the Challenges
Dr. Chua shared heartfelt insights into the obstacles that must be overcome to ensure every child thrives:

    • Teacher Preparedness: Many teachers are equipped with theoretical knowledge for inclusive classrooms but lack practical tools to navigate diverse classrooms effectively.
    • Parental Concerns: Stigma and fear often hold parents back from confronting developmental challenges, leaving children without the support they deserve.

2. A Vision for Change
Through KLC International Institute’s visionary “Every Teacher, Every Child” (ECET) initiative, Dr. Chua unveiled a future where inclusivity isn’t a challenge but a celebrated strength. The initiative’s core beliefs and aspirations:

    • Value: Every child is special, with potential that transcends their current performance.
    • Competence: Teachers must be adept at designing and facilitating learning for diverse classrooms, leveraging individual strengths to benefit all.
    • Disposition: Teachers should strive to observe and nurture each child’s growth, fostering respect and collaboration.

3. Turning Vision into Action
Dr. Chua highlighted KLC International Institute’s efforts to reimagine inclusive education:

    • Reimagining Systems: Designing ecosystems that make inclusion the foundation of education.
    • Collaborative Partnerships: Forging alliances with local and international thought leaders.
    • Empowering Communities: Hosting workshops, masterclasses, and global conferences that ripple change far beyond Singapore.
    • Championing Parents: Providing parents with skills, guidance, and hope, including initiatives that celebrate the pivotal role of fathers.

Igniting Change and Inspiring Hope

Dr. Chua’s passionate message was telecasted “live” into undergraduate classes in Special Education and ignited a rather rigorous discussion. He ended the address with a call for collaboration between Singapore and Taiwan to impact beyond Singapore and Taiwan to include the nations in Asia.

To participate in KLCII’s ECET initiative through the coming international conference, visit https://klc.edu.sg/ec-conference-2025/.