UNICEF Kosovo signed an agreement in May 2017 with Special Olympics Kosovo to ensure that children with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are involved in inclusive play and sport activities.
The Young Athletes program gives children with ID opportunities to develop physical fitness, to better socialize with others, demonstrate courage, experience joy and share their skills with their community. The Young Athletes project will involve 75 children with and without ID in special and mainstream primary schools in the cities of Pristina, Mitrovica, Prizren to have regular inclusive play and sports activities.
Meanwhile the parents of each child will become aware of the abilities and potential of children, particularly in terms of socialization within an inclusive setting. In addition, this collaboration will contribute to further increase public awareness about the needs and abilities of children with intellectual disabilities and to influence national governments.