UEW to host workshop on learning disabilities

The Ghana National Commission for UNESCO, in collaboration with Dyslexia International, which is a UK leading reading difficulty NGO, would from October 9 to October 11, organise a workshop on Dyslexia at the Special School Education Department, University of Winneba.

Dyslexia is a learning disorder marked by a severe difficulty in recognizing and understanding written language, leading to spelling and writing problems. It is not caused by low intelligence or brain damage.

The workshop would be handled by Professor Linda Siegel, a leading expert in reading and writing disabilities from the University of British Columbia, Canada, who is also a member of the Dyslexia International (DI) Scientific Advisory Panel.

A statement to the Ghana News Agency on Wednesday said Prof Siegel’s visit had been funded by the UNESCO Participation Programme with support from the Ghana National Commission for UNESCO, Unibank Ghana Limited and the Australia High Commission.

The main issues to be treated during the workshop include latest research into teaching dyslexic students, including students with specific difficulties with reading and writing.

She would also supply materials for teaching literacy, and a print out copy of the Dyslexia International online teacher training for participants for their review and discussions.

“She looks forward to educating about the relevance and long term benefits of introducing Dyslexia International’s free online training materials into the Ghanaian national and regional teacher training programme and future liaison”, the statement said.

Source: GNA