Poonch, August 2
In a heartening and inclusive effort, the Department of School Education, in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) based in Kanpur, under the aegis of SAMAGRA Shiksha organized a Distribution cum Fitment Camp for children with special needs (CWSN) in the Auditorium of Degree College Poonch here today.
The camp was organised to empower 202 identified Children With Special Needs studying in government schools in Poonch district.
The event was graced by the presence of Mohd Ashraf Choudhary, the Joint Director of School Education for Poonch and Rajouri, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion. Choudhary expressed his delight and highlighted the significance of inclusive education. He emphasized that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves an equal opportunity to receive quality education and be an active participant in society.
In Poonch district 202 children with diverse abilities have been identified to receive assistive devices that cater to their specific needs. In today’s camp Over 35 students received assistive devices and essential equipment such as wheelchairs, hearing Aids, Tricycles, Walkers, Braille Kits, KAFO (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis), MR (Mental Retardation) kits, CP (Cerebral Palsy) chairs, and cane sticks. These devices were intended to enhance the mobility, communication, and overall independence of the children, thus enriching their lives significantly.
Bishamber Dass, Chief Education Officer Poonch, speaking on the occasion underscored the significance of inclusivity in the education system. Dass reiterated the commitment of the Education Department to ensuring that every student, including those with special needs, receives adequate resources and support to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Inclusive Education is not just a concept but a commitment for creating an environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, is embraced and empowered to learn and grow together. He added. N. M. Suri, The District Education and Planning Officer Poonch (DEPO), emphasized the importance of early intervention and timely support for children with special needs and this Distribution cum Fitment Camp marks the beginning of a series of such camps planned for Poonch district. With a total of six camps scheduled, many more children with special needs are set to benefit from the distribution of essential assistive devices
The camp was coordinated by Mushtaq Khan, District Co-ordinator Inclusive Education Poonch, Sauda Begum Resource Person, Darshan Kumar, (DRG) District Resource Person and Tehsin Ali, DEO.
