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UM OT students contribute to international dialogue on inclusive education

As part of Occupational Therapy week 2025, a group of Occupational Therapy students from UM participated in the 2025 held in Coimbra, Portugal. Together with Dr Nathalie Buhagiar from UM and other members of the , they contributed to the international dialogue on inclusive education via a workshop entitled "Provocations on the "Special" nature of School-based Occupational Therapy".

The group took part in a dynamic workshop on inclusion and school-based occupational therapy (SBOT) across diverse educational contexts. Through creative methods such as drawing, storytelling, and role play, participants explored how occupational therapists can support meaningful participation for all children in schools. The workshop also built upon Debbie Kramer Roy’s thought-provoking poster presentation, which invited colleagues to join a growing international network focused on inclusive education and to continue the dialogue beyond the conference.

In their reflective discussions, the UM students highlighted structural, practice-based, and attitudinal challenges that influence the implementation of inclusive school-based OT. They emphasised the importance of ongoing collaboration and critical reflection in developing approaches that uphold every child’s equitable right to education, recognised by UNESCO (2024) as “the foundation of a more just society.”

Their contribution not only showcased the commitment and insight of emerging Maltese occupational therapists but also reinforced the central theme of Occupational Therapy Week: celebrating the profession’s role in promoting participation, inclusion, and social justice.