Inclusion for everyone: Your future is pink!” Excited Porz!

Inclusion for everyone: Your future is pink!” Excited Porz!

In the Porz district of Cologne, inclusive education is very important. The youth center OT Ohmstrasse has with its project, which has the motto “Your future is pink!” has already inspired numerous children. Since its launch in March 2022, the facility, under the direction of Bianca Rillinger, has promoted the active participation of 79 children between the ages of six and twelve, regardless of their individual requirements.

Recreational opportunities are designed to cover a variety of educational content, from health to culture to the environment. A particular focus is on providing support with school challenges; Practical activities such as making cardboard clocks and playing “City, Country, River” help children not only have fun but also develop their skills. The positive development of many children is already reflected in improved school grades, which underpins the success of the project. According to Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, 50 new regular visitors, including 26 children with disabilities, are now taking part in the program.

Integration and participation

Involving children in organizing their free time is a central aspect of the project. You actively determine the main topics and develop monthly plans together. There are offers on different days of the week, such as individual tutoring on Mondays under the motto “Have fun learning” or cultural excursions on Fridays under the title “Colorful Experiences”. Health promotion with delicious snacks is also offered on Tuesday.

The importance of participation is also actively discussed in educational discussions. An article by Ballaschk and Anders emphasizes the importance of children's active participation in their well-being. These are also crucial factors for the development of a successful inclusive approach that promotes educational participation and values ​​diversity. According to Fachportal Pedagogy, children who can participate have a better perception of their own abilities and needs.

Inclusive education – a step towards equal opportunities

However, inclusive education goes beyond projects like the one in Cologne. This approach, which is intended to enable all children, regardless of disabilities or social backgrounds, to learn together, calls for fundamental reforms in the school system. According to Federal Agency for Civic Education, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was introduced in Germany in 2009 to guarantee the right to inclusive education. However, there are significant challenges, such as the division of the school system, which often means that many children with special needs end up in special schools.

Parents are often divided in the discussion about inclusive schools. According to surveys, around 60 percent believe that children with disabilities receive better support in special schools, while 68 percent are convinced of the results in inclusive schools. This shows that the perception of educational opportunities depends heavily on individual experiences.

Finally, it should be noted that the project in OT Ohmstrasse is a successful example of the positive implementation of inclusive approaches. With a follow-up offer entitled "All children have rights. Because your future is pink", an important step is being taken for the participation of all children in Cologne. The facility is also calling for donations to continue to support disadvantaged children and young people and improve their educational opportunities.