EURO-CIU NEWSLETTER – MARCH 2025
In April 2024 the Lehnhardt Foundation, with support from German International Cooperation Society (GIZ), launched the project “Development of a sustainable support program for hard of hearing and deaf children in Kyrgyzstan.” This initiative aims to enhance the qualification of therapists in both urban and regional areas of the country. Following numerous practical training sessions and online meetings, a Round Table entitled “Inclusion for Children with Hearing Impairments” was organized on 19 February 2025 at the National Centre for Maternity and Childhood Care (NCMCC) in Bishkek.
The Round Table brought together representatives from the Ministries of Health, Education and Social Development, as well as local educational and healthcare organizations, NCMCC staff, delegates from the German Embassy and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), parent associations, public foundations and business partners of cochlear implant manufacturers. The timing of the event coincided with two significant dates: International Cochlear Implant Day on 25 February and World Hearing Day, celebrated under the World Health Organization’s slogan “Overcoming Stereotypes: Making Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All!”
The primary goal of the Round Table was to discuss the progress made already, and to address pressing issues related to the inclusion of children with hearing impairments. Special attention was given to early detection of hearing impairments, diagnostic methods, cochlear implantation and the rehabilitation of affected children.
Key speakers included ENT doctors from NCMCC, the director of the rehabilitation centre and family support, the director of the International Association of Hearing Rehabilitation Specialists, the head and one therapist from the parents’ organization Slyshim Vmeste, the head of NGOs Uplift and Balanur, the head of the Department of Special Pedagogy at the Pedagogical University and a member of the Board of the Lehnhardt Foundation.
The event featured engaging discussions, culminating in the signing of a resolution that was forwarded to the Cabinet of Ministers. The director of NCMCC and the project partners expressed strong support for this initiative, hoping for rapid advancements in the field.
The next phase of the project involves training of 15 therapists under a “train the trainer” concept. These educators will consult and oversee 30 classes in mainstream schools and kindergartens, accommodating children with hearing impairments who are either currently enrolled or set to begin their studies in September 2025.
This initiative underscores the Lehnhardt Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusive education and to support children with hearing impairments in Kyrgyzstan.
Dr. Monika Lehnhardt-Goriany & Liubov Wolowik