Hear the words of a true educator
IN 1994, he was an English primary schoolteacher in Ipoh with a challenge that was at first beyond his ability – all his students were deaf.
But the solution was obvious. All he had to do was learn sign language, so he signed up for a course and was soon teaching students to sign in English.
“When we teach students with special needs, even the slightest improvement makes a huge difference for them and their families.
“It’s a special feeling when you know you contribute to their progress,” said Assoc Prof Dr Aznan Che Ahmad ( pic).
He kept on improving himself and eventually gained a doctorate in special education.
Dr Aznan, 49, is now Universiti Sains Malaysia’s (USM) Special Education Programme chairman in the School of Education and Studies.
He lectures and trains special needs teachers, conducts workshops and programmes on such teaching methods.
Dr Aznan believes it is important to never let those with special needs feel ostracised or pushed to the side.
“My hope is that society will become more accepting of them.
“They need to be treated equally. Even a simple ‘hello’ to acknowledge their presence will go a long way.
“Parents should also not feel ashamed. “No one expects to have a special needs child. It can be a challenge, but take it up and tap into their potential,” he said.
Dr Aznan also said bosses should never dismiss the potential of those with special needs.
“If you find what they are good at and give them opportunities to channel their abilities, they actually make better employees as they do not get distracted.
“They love routine and they will be focused and dedicated,” he said.