Scouting for Inclusion: A Path to Accelerate Integration for Children with Intellectual Disabilities.
The images you see above feature children, youth, and adults with intellectual disabilities participating in programmes held in Norway and Sri Lanka.
You'll notice they are all wearing a uniform, specifically, a Scout uniform.
This naturally raises a crucial question: "Can a person with an intellectual disability become a Boy or Girl Scout?"
In Norway, the Scouting movement has been successfully utilized for individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities, extending its reach not only to children and youth but also to adults.
The News Whisperer has had the privilege of engaging with these unique Scout groups on several occasions, meeting them and participating in various programmes both in Norway and in Sri Lanka.
The Scouting movement is an initiative rich with diverse activities that creatively engage not just children but also young adults.
A key feature is its direct connection to environmental activities.
Currently, several youth organizations in Sri Lanka are following this lead, directing children with intellectual disabilities towards Scouting activities.
A number of organizations have already started Scouting activities for children with intellectual disabilities, and there is noticeable and special enthusiasm from the children themselves.
Many activities within the Scouting movement can be done collaboratively by individuals both with and without intellectual disabilities.
These activities often centre on various sports, cultural, and environmental pursuits. News Whisperer strongly believes in the potential for these groups to be integrated into society through engaging in activities together with other children and youth, irrespective of intellectual ability.
In Sri Lanka, the President is considered the Chief Scout. Furthermore, a fundamental goal of the National People's Power's "Ekwa Athnohara" (Leaving No One Behind) policy for persons with disabilities is the inclusion of this community.
The government is currently undertaking significant and successful efforts on behalf of persons with disabilities.
Given the special interest in inclusion, News Whisperer emphasizes the importance of extending the Sri Lanka Scouting movement to include children with intellectual disabilities across the island.
News Whisperer 2025.10.08.
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