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FOUNDATION COURSE FOR DISABILITY ACTIVISTS
A PEKTUR Programme Short Course to be held at the National Commission
Persons with Disability, First Floor Istituto Vincenzo Bugeja, Centru Hidma Socjali, Sta. Venera.
WHY HAVE THIS COURSE?
For many years we disabled people in Malta have relied on non-disabled
persons to speak on our behalf. Non-disabled people and organisations
run by non-disabled have represented our interests at all levels: political,
educational, social, religious, nationally and at within the community.
While we appreciate the sincere efforts of a number of these non-disabled
activists, many of us feel that it is time for disabled persons to SPEAK
OUT! for ourselves. As the persons who best understand our own needs and
aspirations, we can be our own best advocates. However, we also understand
that speaking out, for example on the media (radio & television) or
with public officials, can be a difficult experience, just as it is not
always easy to convey one's message in the way one wants it to be conveyed.
The Maltese disability sector needs more disabled spokespersons, and parents
of people with intellectual disabilitiy --- people ready to SPEAK OUT!
effectively. That is the reason for holding this course.
HOW IS THE COURSE STRUCTURED?
Speak Out!3 will be split into two levels. The first level will focus
on basic advocacy skills and is described in the course unit description.
The second level will focus more directly on media presentation skills,
especially television and radio.
IS THIS THE COURSE FOR ME?
Are you are a disabled person, or a parent of a person with an intellectual
disability, who has an interest in civil rights issues of disabled persons?
Are you are ready to make your voice heard and to help in the struggle
for equal opportunities for persons with disability? If YES, then this
is definitely the course for you.
CAN EVERYONE ATTEND?
The course uses a hands-on approach which works best with groups of preferably
no more than 15 people. Preference will therefore be given to speakers,
or other individuals already actively involved in the disability sector,
particularly those who have already showed an interest in Speak Out! 3.
Participants of Speak Out! 1 & 2 are also encouraged to apply. However,
if you don't get in this time, don't worry, as long as there is enough
demand we will hold the course again.
WHAT ARE THE AIMS OF THE COURSE?
- to help participants to develop effective advocacy skills in the disability
sector.
- to enable course participants to familiarise themselves with current
disability issues
- to familiarise participants with the structure and role of government
departments and agencies and NGOs
- to give participants practice in written and verbal communication
skills, preparing for and holding meetings and dealing wit h people
at various levels
HOW WILL THE COURSE BE DELIVERED?
Formal lectures will be avoided as much as possible and participants
will be encouraged to dialogue with the lecturers. There will be a combination
of formal presentations, group discussions, role play, workshops, video.
Where necessary, participants will be given one to one support.
WILL MY DIFFERENT NEEDS BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT?
Yes. When you fill in the Application
Form you must inform us about your particular needs. Course notes
may be provided in Braille, on computer diskette, by email, or on audio
tape. Sign language interpretation will be available. The venue chosen
is wheelchair accessible and has accessible facilities. Wheelchair users
who need to make use of tail-lift vans should tick the appropriate box
in the Application Form. Transport costs will be carried by the Kummissjoni
Nazzjonali Persuni b'Dizabilità.
WILL THERE BE A CERTIFICATE?
A certificate of attendance will be awarded to all participants who attend
a minimum of 80% of the sessions, take active part in all course activities
and who complete all the assignments. A modest celebration will be organised
to mark the occasion. Separate certificates will be given for the Advocacy
Skills and the Media Skills courses.
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