Dear Editor,

Sharp drops in bullying rates, higher student and teacher retention, improved student scores, and a stronger sense of connectivity among all students are some of the remarkable results achieved in schoolyards and classrooms across Jamaica in recent years.

This was made possible by the Special Olympics Jamaica Unified Schools programme, which uses the power of inclusive sports to create increased social and emotional learning for students of all abilities in schools throughout the country. This marks a departure from inclusive sports being treated as special events to becoming an integral part of every student’s academic journey, positioning the theme of inclusion as a key learning for students to bring to their communities, industries, and nation.

Consider the Genesis Academy, a school supporting students with disabilities, which has teamed up with Convent of Mercy Academy “Alpha”, an all-girls high school in Kingston. As part of an exchange programme made possible by the Embassy of the United States of America, both schools will collaborate in offering inclusive sports programming to students of all abilities to break down barriers, eliminate stereotypes, and offer both schools an opportunity to redesign school-to-school collaboration.

Elleston Primary and Infant School stands as another beacon of change, implementing inclusive sports for students with and without intellectual disabilities throughout the year. This innovative approach not only provides students with a chance to learn from each other but also empowers teachers alike to bring students together, both in the classroom and through physical activities.

Through a generous grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Special Olympics has taken the step to expand this model worldwide through the creation of the Global Leadership Coalition for Inclusion, of which Jamaica serves as the first Caribbean nation to serve as an inaugural member. Under the leadership of Minister Olivia Grange, the Ministry of Gender, Entertainment, Culture and Sport has committed to expanding the reach and impact of Unified Schools work across the country, empowering more and more schools — and more and more students — to make inclusive sports a reality for all.

More than just winning and losing, the Government has taken an important step in fully implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN-CRPD) for those most on the margins. In a world often divided along political, economic, social, and ideological lines, Jamaica is setting an example by encouraging students to make inclusion an integral part of their school fabric.

It is also noteworthy to consider that the unity, solidarity, and connectivity that is taking root in schools across Jamaica is made possible through the courage, determination, and commitment of students with intellectual disabilities and Special Olympics Jamaica athletes. Through Special Olympics Unified Schools, and through the expansion of the Global Leadership Coalition for Inclusion, the athletes of Special Olympics are driving social change through the simple yet profound invitation to their peers to Play Unified. Recognising the impact of this platform, the Government views it as a key strategy to enhance the lives of students with intellectual disabilities and improve the broader community through inclusive development.

As the world convenes to celebrate the International Day of Education, the Special Olympics movement salutes students across Jamaica. Their efforts in making inclusive education a reality for every school are a testament to the transformative power of sports in fostering a more compassionate society and bringing Jamaica’s national motto to life: Out of Many, One People.

David S Evangelista

President and managing director

Special Olympics Europe Eurasia

devangelista@specialolympics.org