{flike}

On 17 March 2018, the “Rock Your Socks” evening was held by Ghiyasuddin International School to mark World Down Syndrome Day. The purpose of the evening was to advocate for the rights of children with Down syndrome, encourage neurotypical children to build friendships by accepting differences and actively help children with Down syndrome participate and build positive identities for themselves in an inclusive community.

Children with Down syndrome, their families and members of Beautiful Eyes Down Syndrome Association were invited to join the evening. The evening commenced with cake cutting surrounded by all the children who attended the evening, displaying the wonderful inclusive environment that GIS aspires for.
As part of community service, volunteer students of Grade 9 played an important role for this event by coordinating activities and materials for the stalls. Throughout the evening the volunteer students were in-charge of managing their respective stalls. Moreover, an art and craft stall was arranged by Ms. Maimoona, president of Maldives Art Association (MAA) and Art HOD of GIS. “Rock Your Socks” was made even more joyous by the performances given by GIS students and other children who visited the evening.
In addition to the canteen arranged by EXCO members, GIS also collaborated with Zeeba Deli and Café, Meraki Coffee Roasters and The Kitchen. Part of their proceeds was donated to Beautiful Eyes Down Syndrome Association at the World Down Syndrome Day Event held at Social Centre. Furthermore, to raise awareness on Down syndrome and to show support for the cause, GIS staff and students wore mismatched socks to school today (21.3.2018).