Creativity of specially-abled in the forefront

The Colombo Centre for Special Education is a non-profit organisation, which specialises in the rehabilitation of mentally disadvantaged males. The centre’s main focus is in taking care of males suffering from Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and even those who are retarded in their mental growth. These disabilities make the said individuals slow learners in many ways, thereby making their entrance to society that much more difficult.

On 18 June 2013 the Colombo Centre for Special Education will showcase that these individuals are not as helpless as society deems them by holding an Arts and Crafts Exhibition at the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery. The objective of the exhibition is to create awareness about the needs of these individuals whilst showcasing that the specially-abled are talented and can contribute to society in some way. The exhibition will be opened to the general public between 9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on 18 June 2013.  This year the chief guest will be renowned Sri Lankan author and illustrator of many popular children’s stories, Sybil Wettasinghe. Those visiting the exhibition will be able to see a diverse range of items which include greeting cards, birthday cards, anniversary cards, plain cards, note pads, envelopes, gift tags, book marks, jute rugs, serviettes, dish towels, potholders wrapping paper, woodwork articles, bread baskets and wall hangings to name a few.

The Colombo Centre for Special Education is currently looking at expanding their services to the specially-abled by providing permanent hostel facilities, to continue caring for them once those in their families are unable to do so.  As the Centre functions are entirely dependent on the kindness and generosity of benefactors, the organisers request the general public to attend this exhibition and thereby show their support and encourage those with special needs.