Towards an Inclusive and Cohesive Society within Mandatory Curricula**
**Introduction:**
In the pursuit of building an inclusive society that accommodates everyone, the axis of “Interacting with People of Determination” emerges as one of the six fundamental mandatory pillars. This topic is no longer specialized or optional; it has become a societal and moral necessity that reflects the progress and sophistication of a society. These courses emphasize that people of determination do not need pity, but rather understanding, support, and empowerment, ensuring them a dignified life and active participation in all fields.
**Who are People of Determination?**
They are individuals who face long-term physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychological challenges, which may prevent them from participating fully and equally in society when encountering various barriers. However, the term “People of Determination” emphasizes the willpower, strength, and determination they possess, not the disability they might have. They are an integral part of the societal fabric and possess tremendous energies and potentials that can enrich society if provided with the appropriate supportive environment.
**The Importance of Learning How to Interact with People of Determination:**
Making this axis mandatory stems from a deep awareness of its importance on both the individual and societal levels:
1. **Promoting the Principle of Equality and Justice:** Ensuring that people of determination obtain their rights and opportunities in education, employment, and social participation.
2. **Breaking Psychological and Social Barriers:** Proper understanding helps eliminate misconceptions and stereotypes, thereby reducing the social isolation they might experience.
3. **Building a Cohesive Society:** It makes individuals feel responsible towards others, reinforcing the values of solidarity, cooperation, and humanity.
4. **Utilizing Their Energies:** When people of determination are empowered, they become productive and innovative individuals who contribute to the development and prosperity of society.
**Basic Principles for Interacting with People of Determination:**
Mandatory courses focus on instilling a set of fundamental principles:
* **Interact with Respect and Dignity:** Treat them as independent adults and avoid using language that implies pity or excessive sympathy.
* **Communicate Correctly:** Speak to them directly, not to their companions. Ask politely about their needs if you are unsure how to offer help.
* **Offer Help Only When Needed:** Do not assume they always need help; always ask first, “Would you like any help?” and respect their refusal if they do not need it.
* **Avoid Discrimination:** Do not interact with them based on their disability, but rather on their abilities and potentials.
* **Focus on the Person, Not the Disability:** See the person first, and do not make the disability their sole identity.
**Conclusion:**
Including the “Interacting with People of Determination” axis in the list of mandatory topics is a fundamental step towards translating the value of humanity into practical practices. It teaches us not only how to interact with a specific group but also how to be more compassionate, tolerant, and humane individuals. Through this knowledge, we lay a foundation for an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is valued, respected, and appreciated.