The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) launched today (26 June 1999) a training module for children focusing on equal opportunities in relation to gender and disability issues. The EOC is holding a series of workshops for kindergarten teachers to familiarize them on how to use the training module. About 750 teachers from over 330 kindergartens and child care centres have registered for the training workshops and the first workshop was held today.

Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Fanny CHEUNG Mui-ching, Chairperson of the EOC, said, "It is important to cultivate a strong sense of equal opportunities in young children so that they will not discriminate against other people when they grow up. They will even become catalyst for change in combating traditional misconceptions and prejudice."

"We hope to help children develop new sets of values based on respect for human dignity and empathy for other people. When they grow up, I hope they will make up the future enlightened generation and create a better world without discrimination," said Dr. Cheung.

The training module is developed by the EOC in collaboration with the Hong Kong Council of Early Childhood Education and Services (CECES), an expert in early childhood education. It is part of EOC's public education initiatives to promote equal opportunities from childhood. Targeting children aged four to six attending kindergartens or child care centres, it brings out the limiting effect of stereotyping and emphasizes the importance of treating other people with respect disregarding their abilities.

The materials in the training module include big books, pictures, photos, an educational doll and toys, theme-song cassette tape, puzzles, board games, braille cards and teachers' handbooks. The materials are lively and interesting and also stresses learning of children through participation in various activities. Kindergartens and child care centres can start using the training module in the coming school year.

Enquiry: Mr. Sam HO      21062187