In light of World Autism Awareness Day, PASCAL Private Primary School Limassol held an Empathy Event, on April 2nd, 2024 at 11.30 am, at the school’s premises. The event was centred around fostering empathy and understanding towards individuals with autism and other disabilities. The event, which was set under the auspices of the First Lady of Cyprus, Mrs Philippa Karsera Christodoulides, aimed at raising awareness among our pupils about the challenges faced by individuals with diverse abilities, while promoting inclusivity and compassion within our school community.

As part of its efforts, PASCAL Private Primary School Limassol also translated the first Cypriot song about disability “Είμαι σαν τζαι εσένα” into English. The song was initially composed and performed by Mrs Zozo Christodoulou. The translated rendition was presented to the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth as well as the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. The idea behind this initiative was for our school to contribute to broader community initiatives and expand empathy campaigns within English-speaking schools across the island. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Zozo Christodoulou for generously granting us the right to proceed with the translation of the song.

Pascal Primary School Limassol was honoured to welcome the First Lady of Cyprus, Mrs Karsera Christodoulides, who presided over the event and delivered a keynote speech centred around empathy. Additionally, Mr Pavlides, a professional basketball player in a wheelchair, addressed our pupils and provided insight into the importance of inclusivity. Furthermore, Mr Pavlides facilitated wheelchair basketball activities, offering pupils the opportunity to engage in a hands-on learning experience that promoted understanding and inclusivity.

Moreover, Mrs Zozo Christodoulou, who is a teacher herself and works for the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare, conducted an experiential workshop aimed at enhancing empathy and understanding among the school’s pupils and provided them with valuable insights and tools for fostering an inclusive environment. Mrs Christodoulou, who is also President of the Cyprus Association for People with Autism and a mother of a child on the autistic spectrum, shared her experiences in terms of raising an autistic child and gave examples of how pupils can comprehend the behaviour of children with autism and, in effect, be able to accept and include the child in their daily interactions.

On the day of the event, attendants were invited to wear blue attire in support of the autistic community. The colour blue, associated with calmness and acceptance, is the primary colour designated to autism.

We extend our wholehearted gratitude to all who graced us with their presence. Each attendee became an integral link in the social chain of acceptance and welfare.