Breaking barriers

Gulf Weekly

20-03-2025

MORE employment opportunities for people of determination, expanded integration of children with Down syndrome in mainstream classrooms, and a new centre for the talented individuals and their families are on the cards, Bahrain Down Syndrome Society (BDSS) executive manager Ahmed AlAli has highlighted, coinciding with World Down Syndrome Day tomorrow.
The society established in 1998 has, over the past few years, accomplished significant milestones - from integration of children with the genetic condition in government schools to successfully training and securing jobs for 40 Bahrainis in various sectors like banking hospitality, insurance, oil and gas, and more.
'This year, the society plans to train and recruit 10 new candidates in new sectors, such as technology, arts and motor showrooms, to provide more diverse employment opportunities for adults with Down syndrome,' Mr AlAli told GulfWeekly.
'BDSS aims to partner with more governmental and private schools, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The integration programmes have enabled children with Down syndrome to learn alongside their peers, fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding from a young age.
'We are also working with the Social Development Ministry towards providing a comprehensive special needs complex, which will be located either in Aali or Isa Town and serve as a hub for activities, training, and support services for individuals with Down syndrome and their families,' he added.
Down syndrome is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome or an extra piece of a chromosome that changes how a baby's body and brain develop. It can cause both mental and physical challenges during their lifetime.
According to the latest reports, the estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between one in 1,000 to one in 1,100 live births worldwide. Each year, approximately 3,000 to 5,000 children are born with this chromosome disorder.
World Down Syndrome Day is annually marked on March 21 to raise global awareness about the genetic condition and help people understand and support those with Down syndrome better. This year's theme calls on governments to 'improve our support systems'.
'BDSS has been instrumental in raising awareness through community events, workshops, and media campaigns, which has not only reduced stigma but also encouraged more families to seek support and resources from the society,' Mr AlAli noted.
Thanks to the centre's efforts, people of determination have been succesfully integerated into the mainstream and their talents honed. Many have even attained recognition on international platforms, making the kingdom proud.
Bahraini Taekwondo champion Nasir Hubail, who has been with the society since childhood, bagged the gold medal from among 70 participants around the world, at the Turkish open PARA Poomsae G-2 Taekwondo Tournament held last month in Antalya, Turkey.
The 16-year-old has always had a passion for martial arts and decided to pursue the Korean form at the tender age of 10.
'I was determined to challenge myself physically and mentally. By watching other athletes overcome their own obstacles, I was motivated to push beyond my limits,' the holder of 10 medals across six local and international championships said.
'(As a person of determination), I had to adapt to heavy training, focusing on my strengths and working closely with coaches to develop techniques that suited me. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, proving that perseverance can help overcome any obstacle,' he added.
A student of Alia National School, Nasir is also an avid painter and swimmer, as the activities allow him to express himself in different ways.
'Swimming gives me a sense of freedom and strength, helping me stay active and pushing my limits. Art, on the other hand, is a way for me to express my creativity and emotions. It allows me to share my perspective with the world,' he added.
Bahrainis Maryam Janahi, 18, and Salman Aljishi, 35, have also been members of BDSS since childhood, and, thanks to the society's specially designed activities and training, have exhibited progress in their fields of interest.
'Salman is a wonderful painter and Maryam, who attended Hawar International School, has shown talent in both art and academics,' Mr AlAli said, adding that they are ambitious to enter the job market in the society's next recruitment programme.