In a heartening display of inclusion, creativity, and sustainability, students at the Sanjay Centre for Special Education in Porvorim showcased their artistic talents at a Ganesh idol-making workshop organised by Mapusa Kalakirti in collaboration with Bal Bhavan Panaji. The event saw the presence of Subhash Phaldessai, Minister for Social Welfare and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who commended the students for their craftsmanship and praised the efforts of teachers and parents who have nurtured their creative journey.
The workshop focused on producing eco-friendly Ganesh idols using pure shadu clay, a traditional material known for being water-soluble and environment-friendly. The students displayed idols modeled after iconic depictions like Lalbaugcha Raja and “Bappa Sitting on Undir,” reflecting their three years of commercial training. Under the guidance of Bal Bhavan instructors and dedicated teachers, students adopted modern techniques while honoring traditional rituals, producing beautifully detailed idols now available for public purchase at Sanjay Centre, Porvorim, for ₹2,000 each.
State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Guruprasad Pawaskar, proposed an exciting opportunity for the students to demonstrate their skills through a live street workstation during the upcoming International Purple Fest Goa 2025, scheduled for October 9–12. He further announced that, under Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant’s leadership, the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education will introduce Vocational Equivalency Certificates for persons with disabilities who cannot pursue conventional academic pathways—an important step toward formal recognition of skill-based education.
Prerna Pawaskar of Mapusa Kalakirti welcomed the gathering, sharing that such workshops are held annually, with this year’s edition focusing on commercial outcomes to promote entrepreneurship. Dignitaries present included Paulo Rodrigues, Accounts Officer, Sanjay School; Premanand Khumbar of Bal Bhavan; and Tatu Kudalkar, Headmaster, Sanjay School. Training was provided by teachers Ranjeeta Narvekar, Shri Deepesh Shetkar, Sanjay Mandrekar, and Ravi Harmalkar, while Shweta Harmalkar served as compere and delivered the vote of thanks.
The initiative stands as a powerful example of how inclusive platforms and focused vocational training can empower youth with disabilities—building both confidence and livelihood opportunities—while promoting sustainable cultural practices.
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