Peran Sekolah Luar Biasa Pondok Gajah Dalam Memberikan Pelayanan Kepada Anak Disabilitas Di Kabupaten Bener Meriah

Abstract

Pondok Gajah Special School in Bener Meriah Regency, operating under the Ilham Bener Meriah Foundation, is an educational institution serving children with disabilities. Children with disabilities are individuals who experience long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments; in their interactions with the environment and societal attitudes, they may encounter barriers that hinder their full and effective participation on an equal basis with others—particularly given the limited support and the neglect shown by some parents regarding their children's conditions. This study aims to determine the role of Pondok Gajah Special School in providing services to children with disabilities in Bener Meriah Regency and to identify the obstacles faced by teachers in delivering these services. The study employs a qualitative research method, utilizing data collection techniques such as observation, interviews, and documentation. The results indicate that Pondok Gajah Special School fulfills several roles in serving children with disabilities: providing social services, self-development training, outpatient care, and dormitory accessibility. The specific services provided at the school include education, self-development training, outpatient care, and skills training. Obstacles identified during the study include a shortage of special education teachers, the absence of therapy programs, and a lack of available funding.