Establishing a Systematic Social Support Network
[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on the 27th that it has established the "Comprehensive Plan for Lifelong Education Support for Borderline Intellectual Functioning Individuals" (hereinafter referred to as the Comprehensive Plan) to help borderline intellectual functioning individuals live happily as members of the community in Seoul. The newly announced Comprehensive Plan consolidates the lifelong education support projects for borderline intellectual functioning individuals that have been promoted so far, aiming to implement them consistently and effectively. It contains plans to help realize a healthy and happy life for borderline intellectual functioning individuals.
"Borderline intellectual functioning individuals" refer to those who do not meet the criteria for intellectual disability but have cognitive abilities (IQ 71?84) below average intelligence, resulting in difficulties adapting to the society they belong to and requiring support and protection.
This Comprehensive Plan proposes a total of 15 tasks across four areas to strengthen self-reliance capabilities through lifelong education support tailored to the life cycle of borderline intellectual functioning individuals and the establishment of a systematic social support network: ▲ Establishment of a system for discovering and supporting borderline intellectual functioning individuals ▲ Expansion of customized lifelong education and self-reliance support infrastructure for borderline intellectual functioning individuals ▲ Establishment of a research and development foundation related to borderline intellectual functioning individuals ▲ Changing public perception of borderline intellectual functioning individuals in local communities.
First, to help borderline intellectual functioning individuals maintain basic daily life, early detection will be conducted to provide growth and development support services necessary for each developmental stage, thereby improving their quality of life.
Additionally, to integrate borderline intellectual functioning individuals who have been marginalized due to social prejudice into the community as members, lifelong education programs and self-help groups tailored to their life cycle characteristics and needs?such as social skills training, emotional support, employment, and self-reliance support?will be provided.
By identifying the current status and actual conditions of borderline intellectual functioning individuals, a manual for their education will be developed, and experts related to borderline intellectual functioning will be trained to prevent their decline into developmental disabilities due to lack of appropriate education, thereby providing opportunities to grow as healthy members of society.
Furthermore, Seoul City announced plans to continuously promote related forums, campaigns, and online and offline publicity to eliminate social prejudice against borderline intellectual functioning individuals.
Lee Hoeseung, Director of the Lifelong Education Bureau of Seoul City, stated, "If borderline intellectual functioning individuals are detected early and receive appropriate education and training, they can become excellent members of society." He added, "Seoul will continue systematic research and support so that borderline intellectual functioning individuals in Seoul can grow and live as happy citizens."
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