Kazakhstan Embraces Inclusion with a TOY for Inclusion Round Table Meeting 

On February 23, 2024, a landmark event in Kazakhstan's commitment to inclusive education and community integration took place through an online round table entitled "TOY4 Inclusion – Kazakhstan". This crucial gathering, hosted by the ISSA member organization Community Educational Foundation "School for All", was dedicated to assessing the needs for the TOY for Inclusion approach, evaluating existing similar initiatives, and fostering engagement with key stakeholders. 

The round table saw the involvement of around 60 representatives from a vast spectrum of educational, social, and cultural organizations. Among the participants were early years researchers, psychologists, university teachers, and specialists from children’s and youth libraries. Demonstrating a nationwide push towards inclusivity, the event united individuals from six different regions of Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Astana, Kostanay, Kokshetau, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Shymkent, and Karagandy. 

There was enthusiasm among the attendees for the TOY for Inclusion program, with numerous innovative ideas proposed for the creation of Play Hubs. These suggestions included setting up these hubs in local children's libraries and in partnership with pedagogical universities, aiming to create spaces conducive to play and learning for all children. 

Hosted by the Community Educational Foundation "School for All", the meeting underscored the collective determination to forge a more inclusive society in Kazakhstan. The round table not only provided a vital platform for dialogue and partnership but also signalled a significant step forward in the TOY for Inclusion initiative, promising to drive social change through the establishment of Play Hubs. 

To learn more about the work of Community Educational Foundation "School for All" visit their Facebook page. 

To learn more about the TOY for Inclusion approach, which results from work led by International Child Development Initiatives (ICDI) in collaboration with several ISSA Members, visit the TOY for Inclusion webpage.