Inclusive education highlighted as Canossians celebrate 130 years in Singapore

Nov 27, 2024

SINGAPORE: Catholic News SG, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of Singapore reported that the event drew some 3,000 attendees and featured the unveiling of a symbolic new statue and a restructuring initiative that reflects the congregation’s commitment to inclusivity and education.

The highlight of the event was a simple yet profound ceremony symbolizing the merger of the Canossian School (CS) — a special education institution for students with hearing loss — and Canossa Catholic Primary School (CCPS) into a single entity.

Canossian Provincial Sister Geraldine Tan handed a lighted lamp to CCPS Principal Eugenie Tan, marking the transition set to take effect on Jan. 2, 2025.

A statue of Saint Magdalene of Canossa, flanked by a boy and a girl dressed in CCPS uniforms — the boy depicted with a hearing aid — was unveiled by Cardinal William Goh and Sister Geraldine. 

The artwork signifies the schools’ shared mission of fostering understanding and growth among hearing and hearing-impaired students.

“This restructuring will help young people learn to be compassionate, recognize their own weaknesses, and learn from those with disabilities,” said Cardinal Goh during his homily. “To bring those with hearing loss into the mainstream shows we are inclusive.”

The cardinal also praised the Canossian sisters for their work with marginalized communities, particularly through St. Joseph’s Home, which serves the destitute and underprivileged.

The Canossian community in Singapore comprises 41 sisters, including one novice. Starting January 2025, the restructuring of CCPS and the CS will create an inclusive mainstream primary school. 

The school will support students with moderate to significant hearing loss, using the oral approach instead of sign language. 

These students will be admitted separately from the national Primary 1 Registration Exercise, while hearing students will form the majority of the cohort.--licas.news