Several public schools in Ecuador’s Zona 8 marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by holding art festivals that showcased the talents and abilities of their students. Schools such as Dolores Cacuango and José María Egas organized events featuring musical performances, dance, and vocal presentations. Organizers emphasized that inclusion supports the comprehensive development of the educational community.
In Zona 8, there are currently 1,145 students with disabilities enrolled in inclusive education programs. These efforts are supported by eight specialized institutions and 209 dedicated classrooms.
At Unidad Educativa Fiscal José María Egas, student Jeremías Palacios Borja from Escuela Isabel Herreira Herreira performed “Ode to Joy” on guitar. Despite losing mobility at nine months old, Jeremías began learning guitar and bass a year ago while continuing therapy. He has since joined a musical group set to perform throughout December. “I chose this instrument because I like the sound of strings. I am very happy to represent my institution at every festival I am invited to,” he said.
Jenny Cartuche, a teacher at UDAI, commented on the importance of ongoing support: “We seek for our students to always feel included. Children with disabilities receive constant accompaniment and monitoring. By integrating them into activities like these festivals they develop greater confidence and strengthen their skills.”
Another notable performance came from Naomi Maldonado, age 17, who is visually impaired by 85%. Her renditions of songs “Cree” and “Atrévete” were well received by teachers and classmates alike. Naomi has been singing since she was nine years old and hopes to pursue a music career after graduation: “I feel happy when my classmates congratulate me after singing. I would like to continue a musical career when I graduate and record my own album.”
Chesey Ortiz Rivas, aged ten, lives with Costello syndrome which results in intellectual disability and developmental delays but has made significant progress through singing practice. According to her mother: “Singing has helped my daughter a lot. She speaks more freely now and almost always responds when someone talks to her without fear of interacting with others.”
In technology-related achievements, Gustavo Vásquez Márquez from Unidad Educativa Especializada Manuela Espejo stands out for his skills despite having cerebral palsy. Using a tablet for communication during classes, Gustavo learned video editing independently five years ago; he designs logos and manages his own YouTube channel while also participating in his church’s multimedia team.
Gustavo plans to continue his studies after high school with interests in psychology as well as digital media.
On Thursday December 4th at Teatro Centro Cívico de Guayaquil an event titled “Talentos que inspiran” will feature performances by 100 students with disabilities aimed at recognizing artistic academic cultural achievements among students with special abilities.
The Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment stating: “The Ministry of Education reaffirms its commitment to promote inclusive environments where each student can demonstrate their abilities develop fully and participate actively in their community.”
