Neurodiversity Workshop Strengthens Collaboration for Inclusive Education in Manado
Manado – Non-profit organization Magnaminds held a workshop titled “Neurodiversity as a Strength: Strengthening Collaboration in Inclusive Education” in Manado, North Sulawesi. The event, attended by teachers, therapists, psychologists, inclusive school administrators, education foundation representatives, and university students, was officially opened by Manado Mayor Andrei Angouw.
The mayor’s presence reflected the Manado City Government’s support for increasing public awareness of neurodiversity and the importance of inclusive education. The workshop also served as a platform for various stakeholders to exchange knowledge and experiences in supporting neurodivergent individuals to thrive in educational and social environments.
During the event, child psychologist Anita Chandra highlighted the growing importance of inclusive education as awareness of diverse learning and developmental needs continues to increase.
“When we talk about inclusivity in the future, the number of children with special needs continues to grow. Therefore, inclusivity cannot be ignored and must be properly prepared for. Activities like this help raise public awareness about neurodiversity and how to support children so they can develop optimally,” said Anita.
She added that understanding neurodiversity is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive environment. With the right understanding, society can view differences in thinking and learning styles as part of human diversity that deserves appreciation and support.
Meanwhile, Lini Mondigir, Chairperson of the Foundation and Administrator of Armadeus School, emphasized that every child has unique strengths and needs that require personalized educational approaches.
“Children are different, but different does not mean less. They each have their own way of growing and learning. Inclusive schools must be able to accommodate those needs through educational programs tailored to each child’s individual requirements,” she said.
According to Lini, one of the key takeaways from the workshop was the importance of developing individualized learning programs that accommodate each student’s unique characteristics and needs, enabling them to reach their full potential.
Participants showed strong enthusiasm throughout the event. Eklesia Natalie, a therapist at Armadeus School, said the workshop provided valuable insights that could be applied in both educational and therapeutic settings.
“Events like this are still quite rare in Manado. That is why the materials presented were very helpful for us as teachers and therapists in understanding the best approaches for supporting children with diverse needs,” she explained.
She expressed hope that similar programs would continue to be organized so that more educators and practitioners can gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and inclusive education practices.
Magnaminds Founder Ryan Winston Angouw explained that the workshop was designed to provide practical knowledge about inclusive approaches, communication strategies, and environmental adaptations for neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.
“We hope that everyone attending this workshop leaves with a clearer vision of how to implement inclusivity in their respective environments. Teachers, therapists, psychologists, and students all play important roles in creating spaces that are more welcoming and supportive for neurodivergent individuals,” Ryan said.
In addition to the discussions and training sessions, the event concluded with the launch of a practical guidebook on neurodiversity written by Ryan Winston Angouw. The book was distributed free of charge to participants as a resource to support the implementation of more inclusive educational practices.
Through this workshop, Magnaminds hopes to encourage broader understanding that neurodiversity is not a barrier, but rather a strength that can flourish through support, collaboration, and inclusive environments.
Source :Kompas TV Manado
