Skopje, 27 December 2024 (MIA) — The new bill on primary education discriminates against children with disabilities, undermines their inclusion in public education, and dismisses advice from international experts, according to the opposition party SDSM urging President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, as an advocate for human rights, gender equality and non-discrimination, to get involved and protect the rights of disabled children and their right to education.

Also worrying is the decision to delete the terms "gender", "gender equality" and "gender identity" as grounds for discrimination, SDSM MP Daniela Nikolova told a press conference Friday.

"Not only does this go against the Constitution and the country's international obligations but also it makes room for violence and discrimination, especially in schools, which should be the safest places for children," Nikolova said.

"Objecting to the inclusion of students with disabilities is unacceptable. The Commission for the Protection from Discrimination said the proposed changes go against the inclusive education concept. Instead of progress, these changes lead to the return to special schools, limiting disabled children's opportunities for equal development and participation," she said.

Nikolova also said the government had rejected SDSM's amendment to the primary education law to permanently employ special educational assistants, although it would guarantee continuity and prevent stress for children and parents every year.

"Our society cannot go backward. All children are our children. No child should be discriminated against," she said, urging Minister of Education and Science Vesna Janevska to withdraw the bill and draft a better law, promoting genuine inclusion and development of children with disabilities according to education expert guidelines.

"Let's not go back a century. Education needs to be inclusive, fair and safe for all children. Let's protect them and make sure all of them have a better future," Nikolova said. mr/