Services and Facilities

The head of the institution noted that the centre is classified as a training facility and not as an educational one, meaning instruction focused on teaching basic life skills. Only one parent reported that her daughter was not involved in any activities, noting that it was because of her physical condition; “she cannot move, eat, or even swallow.”

While none of the residents interviewed were enrolled in academic classes, some expressed hope of getting an education. One resident said, “I wanted to continue my education before coming to this centre, but the ministry did not help.” Residents had specific career goals, but vocational education was discontinued following the institution’s recent re-classification as a training center for university students in 2017. A resident commented, “They teach us how to brush our teeth and wash our hands [but] I [would] like to become an agricultural engineer.” Another resident said, “I’ve never tried this but I would like to become a carpenter… I never told them this at the centre.” 

None of the residents interviewed reported having access to a medical doctor, though the director of the institution stated that an average of six residents per day were sent to a nearby hospital because of medical complications.

Parents interviewed expressed their satisfaction with the institution’s services in terms of their children’s conduct and discipline. One parent stated that their son “became disciplined, he listens to us, he can rely more on himself, he has better understanding.” Parents appreciated newly developed skills and the provision of basic human needs. One parent assessed the institution positively due to the availability of the director at any time of the day she chose to visit.