Celebrating Inclusion: UK Ambassador’s Inspiring Speech on National Day for Students with Learning Difficulties

The Saint Mary Orthodox School hosted a remarkable event to celebrate the National Day for Students with Learning Difficulties (22 April). This special occasion brought together representatives from the British Council, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the SKILD Center, and various inclusive schools. The event underscored the collective efforts and dedication towards fostering an inclusive education system in Lebanon. The Ambassador of the United Kingdom H.E. Hamish Cowell delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the importance of inclusion, equality, and dignity in education. Below is the full speech given by the Ambassador:

“I am honored to join you today to mark the Annual National Day for Students with Learning Difficulties. This is a day not only to celebrate the achievements of these incredible young people…but to reaffirm our shared commitment to building an education system that uplifts every learner.
A system that recognises diversity as a strength and ensures that no child is left behind.

This year’s theme, “Solid Roots, Infinite Horizons,” resonates deeply with the work we are doing together. To grow we must first be rooted. The values you represent – inclusion, equality, and dignity – are the roots that anchor a strong, resilient society.

The UK is proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, SKILD Center, and so many dedicated partners in Lebanon who are leading the way in inclusive education.

Through our work at the British Council, we are committed to supporting the transformation of Lebanon’s education system – ensuring it becomes more inclusive, more responsive, and more capable of nurturing every learner’s potential.

A key part of this journey is our collaboration with the Ministry and the Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD) to develop the Inclusive Hub School model.

This initiative is not just about one school —it’s about building system-wide capacity so that students with diverse learning needs are included, fully respected and supported across every classroom and every community.

We also recognise that inclusive education begins long before policy takes shape. It starts in the home, in the neighbourhood, and in the classroom.

Promoting a culture of inclusion at the grassroots level is vital.

When families, teachers, peers and communities embrace every learner — regardless of ability — we create spaces where every child feels they belong. That is where true transformation begins.

Next month, the UK will host the Education World Forum, welcoming Ministers of Education from around the globe to London. We are delighted that Mr. Fadi Yarak, Director General at the Ministry, will be representing Lebanon at this global gathering, where inclusive education will be front and centre of the discussion.
Lebanon’s voice, and experience, matters greatly in these conversations.

When families, teachers, peers, and communities embrace every learner — regardless of ability — we create spaces where every child feels they belong. That is where true transformation begins.

Let me conclude by reaffirming how pleased we are to be a partner in this journey. And to say to all the students here today — your strength inspires us. We will continue to work with Lebanon towards a future where every learner, regardless of ability or background, has the chance to thrive.”