Briefs | Talks on sexual education for students with special needs

A Taiwanese teacher who specializes in sexual education for students with special needs was in town last month at the invitation of the Education and Youth Affairs Bureau to host talks for local teachers and parents. According to the guest speaker, Chou Chun Fan, children should be systematically educated on the topic of reproduction and safe sex before they reach adolescence. In addition, she also advised the participants that social norms and expectations regarding sex should be introduced into school curriculums targeted at students who require additional attention. In class, customised lessons should be provided according to individual needs and learning abilities, and supported by real-life examples. The two-day talk saw a total of 50 attendees.

Applications open for Cotai Ecological Zones

The Environmental Protection Bureau (DSPA) has once again opened applications for the opportunity to be involved in Cotai Ecological Zones’ Open Day, to be held on June 13 and 27. The activity is limited to 50 participants, according to a DSPA statement. Applications are now open and those interested in participating can call DSPA’s Environmental Line at 28762626 or apply via their webpage: www.dspa.gov.mo. During the activities, participants will have access to areas within the Cotai Ecological Zones which are normally closed to the public and will be able to observe the  unique fauna and flora.

Free hearing screening for newborns

The Health Bureau (SSM) is holding free hearing screening and testing at the public health centers of Areia Preta and Nossa Senhora do Carmo-Largo, targeting in particular babies not born at Conde S. Januário Hospital, the bureau revealed in a statement. Parents looking to get their babies’ hearing tested should book an appointment at one of Macau’s public health centers for 28 days after the baby is born. SSM stressed that hearing screening and testing is an important healthcare measure, given that congenital hearing impairment could harm development. Therefore, an early hearing screening can provide a clear assessment of the baby’s hearing condition, and is also useful for early diagnosis of any hearing problems. SSM added that the hearing testing is safe and painless. Babies born at Conde S. Januário Hospital get screened right after being born, SSM recalled.