“Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things.”
DELF JUNIOR
Inclusion, for every child is the theme of World Children's day 2022. Inclusive education is the right of every child with unique abilities. It values diversity and the unique contributions each student brings to the classroom.
In a truly inclusive setting, every child feels safe and has a sense of belonging. Students and their parents participate in setting learning goals and take part in decisions that affect them. Alliance Française de Karachi is the true example of Inclusive Education where I am studying learning French language from 2015 till to date.
Today I appeared my first ever International exam DELF at AFK. I am thankful to the faculty, staff & management of AFK for providing me such a supportive, kind & inclusive environment.
AFK did all that was reasonable to accommodate me as a student with special needs such as Separate room allocated, adapted time for each part of the exam and accompanying teacher to help understand the questions. It can be an example for other educational institutions.
Together we can make a difference, a little care and love can bring a huge change.
Syeda Alishba Amin-ud-Din Artist, activist, Social Entrepreneur & Francophone, member Global Advocacy team Down Syndrome International.
It’s true. A new language is a window through which we can see another world. I have always been passionate about learning French because I love to learn new things. I joined Alliance Française de Karachi in 2015 and now I am a student of level B1-A. Everyone told me it’s a difficult language but I accepted the challenge with the help, support, and love of my teachers at the Alliance, and now I am enjoying French.
These days, during the COVID-19 lockdown, I really miss my very own Alliance. I miss my beloved teachers Ms. Munifa Ayub and Ms. Fanny. Can’t wait to see them soon. Also, the chicken cheese sandwich from Café Jardin!
This institution is very special for me. I am not only learning the French language there but I also began as an artist from this platform. My very first solo art exhibition was held right there too, in the Alliance Française art gallery in 2018.
As an artist, I feel the French language as a language of art, culture, and literature. I love French literature, music, movies, and cooking shows.
I am thankful to everyone at the Alliance who have always championed me and mentored me and who provide such a beautiful, encouraging, inclusive and supportive environment for me.
I believe that no disability can stop you if you have the determination to challenge your potential and that is why—against all odds—I draw, busting the myth that females, especially those with “special” needs have no space in society. I am Syeda Alishba Amin-ud-Din, an artist from Pakistan with Down Syndrome which has never been able to curb my flight or keep me down.
—Alishba