Photo (illustration): Nayuki viaFlickr
The China Dyslexia Foundation (CDF) – a non-profit organisation focused on promoting public awareness of dyslexia – launched in Hong Kong last week.
According to the newly launched charity, it's estimated that around 10 percent of the population in mainland China and Hong Kong – including 15 million students – is affected by dyslexia, a learning disability that few know about in the country.
Few public or non-profit initiatives provide help for those afflicted with the disability, meaning a very small number – perhaps only a few hundred – receive help, especially at the most critical time between the ages of six and 12.
The launch event, which was held in Tsim Sha Tsui last Monday, was followed by the Hong Kong premiere of the 2012 documentary “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia”. The film, directed by James Redford, an award-winning producer and the son of Robert Redford, depicts the experiences of various individuals with dyslexia, including his own son.
The event was attended by Redford, who spoke about his personal experiences of raising a dyslexic son, as well as CDF Chair Yvonne Li and HKU Professor Connie Ho.
The CDF's work will include training educational psychologists, social workers and teachers in recognition and assessment techniques, piloting innovation programmes and increasing public awareness.
With the help of various local partners and international experts, CDF hopes to build the capacity of a new special education needs industry in mainland China and Hong Kong, thus supporting dyslexic children and their families throughout their educational and professional lives.
http://hongkong.coconuts.co/2016/03/24/china-dyslexic-foundation-launches-hong-kong
