Lamongan - The atmosphere at the Budi Utomo Auditorium on the 3rd Floor of the Muhammadiyah University of Lamongan (Umla) felt different on Tuesday (10/6/25) morning. Students of the Elementary School Teacher Education Study Program (PGSD) of the Faculty of Science, Technology, and Education (FSTP) sat listening intently.

Today, they did not just learn theory, but were invited to dive into the world of inclusive education—a world that demands empathy and competence in assisting children with special needs (ABK).

The Practitioner Lecture themed "Early Identification and Holistic Approach in Handling Children with Special Needs" presented Dwi Fitria Aini, S.Psi., Founder of Logika Kids. In her presentation, Dwi opened students' insights about the importance of a holistic approach in inclusive education. ​ She explained various types of developmental disorders and learning disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, slow learners, speech delays, and late talkers. ​ “Inclusive education is not just about putting children together in one classroom,” he said. “More than that, it is an effort to build a fair and friendly system for all children without discrimination.” ​ Dwi emphasized the importance of early identification of developmental disorders, as well as the importance of collaboration between teachers, psychologists, and parents.

She closed her session with a moving message, “In the world of education, inclusion is not just a concept, but a commitment to ensure that every child, regardless of physical, intellectual, or social background, has the same right to learn and develop optimally.”

Inclusive Spirit in the World of Education

Head of the Umla Elementary School Teacher Education Study Program, A.F. Suryaning Ati MZ, M.Pd., in her speech emphasized the urgency of an inclusive spirit in the world of education. “No child of the nation should be left behind, marginalized, or neglected simply because of differences in physical, social, economic, cultural, or intellectual conditions,” she said. She added that this practical lecture is a strategic moment to bring together students—future educators—with real practices in the field.

“We want students to not just become teachers, but to become educators who humanize, accompany, and empower all children, without barriers and without discrimination.”

This activity was guided by Avicarizta Zunia A., a PGSD Umla student, and attended by 4th and 6th semester students. In addition to getting e-certificates, participants gained highly relevant practical knowledge and the opportunity to build professional networks. Through this practical lecture, Umla shows its commitment to producing educators who are not only academically superior, but also have social sensitivity and concern for the diversity of students.

It is hoped that activities like this will continue and become an inspiration for other educational institutions in realizing inclusive, fair, and civilized education.