In the framework of the official visit of the President of Ukraine to Norway, President’s wife Maryna Poroshenko got acquainted with the experience of that country in the sphere of inclusive education and held a meeting with leadership of “Save the Children” NGO that helps children affected by military conflicts. President Petro Poroshenko and Maryna Poroshenko had an audience with King Harald V of Norway and Queen Sonja of Norway.

The President’s wife got acquainted with the experience of the elementary school for children with special educational needs. In addition to regular and inclusive classes there are four specialized groups (27 pupils) for pupils with general learning disabilities, autism and different levels of hearing impairment. Education in schools is focused on integration, creation of an appropriate learning environment and development of speech skills.

According to Maryna Poroshenko, teaching a child with special needs in secondary school is a determining factor of socialization.” "The worldview and value orientations are formed here. It fixes the pattern of relationships with other people. Inclusive education teaches all children to respect human dignity since childhood and be responsible and attentive to the needs of others," the President's wife emphasized.

At the meeting with leadership of “Save the Children” NGO, Maryna Poroshenko expressed gratitude for psychological assistance and education of the Ukrainian children in eastern Ukraine. During the conversation, the parties shared views on the creation of secure and tolerant environment for children affected by hostilities and children with disabilities.