Kota Kinabalu: The Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI) of SK Bingkor, in collaboration with the Bingkor Welfare Association, will organise NeuroHope 2026 on July 18 to promote neurodiversity awareness and strengthen inclusive education in Sabah.
The community-driven programme aims to bring together the education, healthcare, government, non-governmental, private and community sectors on a shared platform to improve understanding, acceptance and support for children with special educational needs.
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It is expected to attract government leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, parents, university students, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), private sector representatives and members of the public from across Sabah.
NeuroHope 2026 is led by special education teacher Velerie Wheelervon Primus, who is also the 2026 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards Southeast Asia and Pacific Regional Winner and a Global Teacher Prize 2026 Top 50 finalist.
The programme will be held from 7am to 5pm at SK Bingkor's hall and will feature presentations by Velerie, who is also a consultant psychiatrist and an occupational therapist.
The sessions will focus on neurodiversity awareness, early intervention, mental health, family support strategies and inclusive educational practices that can be applied at home, in schools and within the community.
Community activities will include free vision screening, a blood donation campaign, the Rahmah Community Sale, exhibitions by government departments and agencies in Keningau, cultural performances by Dusun Gana Association and Nabai Cultural Association, as well as a special performance by Sabah artist Rosario Bianis.
Velerie said NeuroHope 2026 supports the aspirations of the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2026-2035 by encouraging collaboration between schools, families, communities, healthcare providers, government agencies and development partners.
He added that the programme also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to good health and well-being, quality education, reduced inequalities, sustainable communities and partnerships.
Admission is free and open to the public, with parents, educators, civil servants, healthcare professionals, university students, private sector representatives, the wider community and members of the media invited to participate and attend the programme.
