The Southeast Asia Association for Special Education (SAASEd) was established in 2018. The vision of the Southeast Asia Association for Special Education (SAASEd) is to improve the quality of life and service delivery for all individuals with special needs in Southeast Asia.

SAASEd also have missions to promote awareness and understanding of issues and developments related to the education and welfare of individuals with special needs throughout Southeast Asia, promote professional exchange between professionals in special education, family members, and individuals in related disciplines in Southeast Asia, encourage and promote research to advance the field of special education and share that information through official publications in Southeast Asia, promote continuing education in special education in Southeast Asia, and work collaboratively with other special education organizations for Southeast Asia promotion of the interests of individuals with special needs.

Inclusive education has become a discussion in the global community. The involvement of the global community in the success of education and learning that is student-friendly, environmentally friendly, and learning-friendly is needed. Therefore, inclusive education has undergone many changes and advances in the education system in Southeast Asia in particular and the world in general. Until now, inclusive education has grown and established itself in providing the widest possible opportunity and space for students with special needs to stand equal to other students so they can become an active part of society and the country.

However, it can’t be denied that special education practice still needs various improvements in various aspects. This condition is a challenge for Special Education to continue to develop and adapt to respond to challenges in the future. Answering these challenges requires research, publication, innovation, creativity, and accommodation based on the needs of the community, educators, educational staff, and students.

The 14th International Conference on Special Education in the Southeast Asian Region (ICSAR 2024) is one of the answers to the requirements for the growth of special education in Southeast Asia. This conference will bring together academics and experts worldwide to collaborate to create a safe and comfortable environment for people with special needs in Southeast Asia.

Dr. Praptono, M.Ed
Sekretaris Direktorat Jenderal Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini, Pendidikan Dasar, dan Pendidikan Menengah Republik Indonesia

Aswin Wihdiyanto, S.T., M.A
Direktur Pendidikan Masyarakat dan Pendidikan Khusus (PMPK) Kemendikbudristek Republik Indonesia