Presentation of the Malaika centers in Rabat-Salé

The Malaika centers are educational establishments dedicated to the schooling of children with Trisomy 21, offering speech therapy and psychomotricity support. Since October 2012, these centers have been welcoming, mainly pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, within two public schools, Malaika Rabat in the Océan district, and Malaika Salé in the Tabriquet district. Employing 20 full-time staff, the centers are run by a specialized teaching team comprising speech therapists, psychologists, psychomotricians, specialized educators and administrative staff. In addition to education, the centers offer a comprehensive service for the 60 pupils enrolled, including school transport to alleviate the daily difficulties of these children and their parents.

Early care is essential for these children, promoting their autonomy in basic activities such as eating, hygiene and communication, and their integration into society. However, maintaining and developing these centers requires substantial funding. With an annual operating budget of 1,300,000 dhs, the Malaika association relies on the constant efforts of volunteers to raise the necessary funds, which are vital to cover payroll, renovate school premises and provide adequate sports facilities, which also benefit the other pupils in these public schools.

What is Trisomy 21?

Trisomy 21, characterized by the presence of 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46, gives rise to various symptoms such as mental deficiency, muscular hypotonia and distinctive physical features such as wide-set eyes and a rounded head. Approximately 8 million people worldwide are affected, with an increased frequency in children of older mothers, estimated at 1 in 800 births.

Although there is no cure, medical advances are helping to alleviate symptoms. Children with T21 learn at their own pace, requiring educational adaptations and constant encouragement. They have the potential to learn and progress significantly, but at a slower pace. Early care, from 6 months with psychomotricity and speech therapy from the very first months, is crucial to their development, helping them to master their bodies and acquire language and cognitive skills.