Tag: children with disabilities

EduConnect

Goa Trains 240 Special Educators to Implement Standardised DISHA Curriculum for Children with Intellectual Disabilities

Tanisha Cardozo

In a progressive move toward inclusive education, the state of Goa has begun training 240 special educators to implement the NIEPID DISHA Curriculum for Children with Intellectual Disabilities. This initiative, launched under the Sewa Pakhwada Abhiyaan by the Government of India, is being spearheaded by GSCERT Goa, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), and the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa.

The training program is being conducted from September 17 to 24, 2025, covering educators from both special and inclusive schools across the state. The inaugural ceremony took place in hybrid mode and was graced by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Honourable Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India. He lauded the efforts of GSCERT and the State Commissioner’s office for taking initiative in adopting the DISHA curriculum.

The DISHA Curriculum, developed by the Jai Vakeel Foundation in Mumbai and approved by NIEPID in 2019, is a standardized educational framework designed to meet the learning needs of children with intellectual disabilities. Already implemented in over 460 special schools in Maharashtra, the curriculum includes comprehensive teacher manuals, student workbooks, and a digital web-portal that enables online assessments, progress monitoring, and real-time data analysis at various administrative levels.

Ms. Archana Chandra, CEO of Jai Vakeel Foundation, shared insights on the success of the curriculum in Maharashtra and highlighted the recent MoU signed with NIEPID to facilitate nationwide rollout. The curriculum has also received approval from the Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi.

Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, commended the collaboration between NIEPID and Jai Vakeel Foundation, calling the introduction of the curriculum a much-needed intervention for the state. Ms. Meghna Shetgaonkar, Director of GSCERT, expressed full support for the initiative and assured continued efforts to enhance special education in Goa.

The implementation of the DISHA curriculum in Goa is expected to significantly improve the educational experience and outcomes for children with intellectual disabilities in the state, setting a strong precedent for other states to follow.

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Molbio Diagnostics Strengthens CSR Impact with New Therapy Units for Children with Disabilities in Goa

allycaralgoa

Goa, July 16: In a powerful stride toward inclusive healthcare, Molbio Diagnostics, the Goa-based global innovator behind the WHO-recognised Truenat PCR platform, has launched Occupational Therapy and Audiology Units at Aastha’s Centre of Excellence, marking a new milestone in the company’s CSR journey.

This latest initiative is designed to serve over 100 children with disabilities every year, providing professional assessments and regular therapy sessions to support the development of sensory, motor, and communication skills. The Audiology Unit will also address undiagnosed hearing impairments, one of the most overlooked developmental challenges in children.

The therapy units aim to bridge critical healthcare access gaps in Goa, especially for vulnerable families who often lack affordable therapeutic services. Molbio’s intervention is not just a donation — it’s a commitment to empowering children and families with the tools they need for a better quality of life.

The inauguration ceremony, set to take place at Aastha’s Centre in Goa, will see participation from local dignitaries, health professionals, and CSR leaders, underlining the significance of public-private partnerships in enabling long-term social change.

“At Molbio, we believe that access to quality healthcare is a right, not a privilege,” said a company spokesperson. “This initiative is about ensuring inclusivity and equity in care — especially for children who need it the most.”

As the company continues to set benchmarks in public health innovation, its CSR arm remains focused on sustainable and scalable solutions that leave a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.

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Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera Empowers Children with Disabilities

allycaralgoa

In a remarkable display of community service and dedication, the Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera has inaugurated a state-of-the-art infrastructure and Early Intervention Centre at Aastha’s Anand Niketan, a school for children with disabilities in Goa.

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This ambitious project was made possible through a Global Grant of $99,000 (Rs. 82,00,000) secured by the Rotary Club in partnership with International Rotary Clubs and The Rotary Foundation. Additionally, the club has partnered with Golden Peace Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. to establish an Early Intervention Centre through Rotary India Foundation, valued at $40,000 (Rs. 35,00,000).

The newly inaugurated infrastructure includes personalized, disability-friendly classroom furniture, smart digital boards, wheelchairs, and state-of-the-art A/V equipment. This modern setup will significantly enhance the learning experience for over 200 special children and provide advanced training to special educators and parents.

The Rotary Club’s initiative aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers children with disabilities to reach their full potential. By providing access to cutting-edge technology and specialized resources, the club is bridging the gap in education and healthcare for these children.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Rtn. Sharad Pai, District Governor RID 3170, PDG Rtn. Alka Khanolkar, and Mr. Rahul Khetrapal, CSR Partner. The event was a testament to the power of community service and collaboration.

“We are thrilled to have partnered with Aastha’s Anand Niketan to create a world-class infrastructure for children with disabilities,” said President Rtn. Tanvi Attreya Sawant. “Through this grant, we are not only improving infrastructure but also building a brighter future for these children, a future where their potential is recognized, nurtured, and allowed to flourish.”

The Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera’s commitment to empowering children with disabilities is a shining example of the impact that community service can have on lives. As the club continues to work tirelessly towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society, we can only applaud their efforts and look forward to seeing the positive change they bring about.