APTC students assist with CEACOSIE Regional Games

16 August 2017
The CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability students studying at the Australia-Pacific Technical College (APTC) recently had the chance to practise their skills at the 2017 Central Eastern Council of Special Educators (CEACOSIE) Regional Games in Suva last month.  

The annual Games is held to boost the self-esteem of children with special needs and help them realise that they can participate in all areas of development, including sport. 

During the event, APTC students interacted with children with special needs, and assisted officials and teachers in coordinating various sporting activities. 

One of the APTC students who assisted at the CEACOSIE Regional Games, Mr Nicholas Seronte said it was an exciting experience and he looks forward to participating in similar activities. 

“As volunteers, we helped organise games such as sitting and standing volleyball, netball, boccia, goal ball, soccer, table tennis and cricket. We also observed the different needs of each child while they were participating in the sporting activities,” he said. 

APTC Disability Trainer, Ms Lisa Rowlands said the event was an opportunity for students to further their skills and knowledge required to work in a variety of disability services. 

“As students with experience of disability-related work, they have a lot to offer in their communities. For some, this was a new environment as they have not worked extensively with children. The variety of activities available to children with different disability types was eye-opening and much networking also took place with stakeholders from the industry.” 

More than 150 children with special needs, who are studying at eight special and three inclusive schools participated in the CEACOSIE Regional Games this year. 

CEACOSIE President, Mr Deepak Singh extended his appreciation to APTC for providing support during the Games, and urged the students to continue assisting people with disabilities. 

“Through this event, children can socialise with their peers and enhance their interpersonal and cognitive skills, which are crucial for holistic development. Most importantly, they were able to showcase the various sports talents they had.”

CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability is currently offered by APTC in Fiji, to help those working in the sector to empower people with disabilities in achieving independence, self-reliance and participate in the community.