On his recent trip to Georgia, Consul (a.h.) Thelmo Cunanan Jr. visited the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia .

He met with Ms. Marika Zakareishvili, Project Director of Inclusive Education and Vocational Education Programs, and Ms. Nia Tuskia, Head of International Relations and Programs.

Consul Cunanan and the MES officials discussed plans to develop collaborative Philippines – Georgian inclusive education programs, focusing primarily on Persons With Disabilities. Inclusive education is a vital area for development in both countries, which face similar challenges and opportunities.  In this regard, Consul Cunanan is working closely with two Philippine organizations—the Earthsavers Movement , led by Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, and Photography With a Difference of socio-civic leader John Chua, to develop in Georgia activities and programs for special children that have been successfully implemented in the Philippines.

Through the help of Ms. Zakareishvili, Consul Cunanan was able to connect with Association Anika, a foundation, which is run and managed by Ms. Irine Inasaridze and dedicated to educating and rehabilitating children with special needs and preparing them for integration in mainstream society.