Different strokes

In tribute to Helen Keller, who changed the misconception of world to the differently abled, the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan(SSA) has envisioned a Cultural Organisation of differentially abled children. The initiative was inaugurated by Prashanth Chandran, winner of Guiness Book of World Records, by playing keyboard on behalf of Cine actor Manu Varma at S.M.V School and other 12 sub districts of Thiruvanathapuram on Tuesday.

The objective of the organisation is to promote and encourage the creativity and talents of such children in various mainstream activities like music, art and more. The SSA focuses on special schools for differentially abled in the districts of Thiruvanthapuram.  ‘’ Children with differential abilities are badly treated because they are not like normal children. They are being oppressed and marginalised from their own society, where they are treated as good for nothing. It is necessary to recognise and support their talents and give them a chance to stand among all of us. They need mental support and society should let them showcase their skills and give them confidence. Our prior aim is to appreciate them in all ways, make them feel good and treat them special’’, says Sreekumaran B., District Project Officer, SSA, Thiruvananthapuram during his welcome address.

Later on, various cultural programmes were presented by the children from special schools. The program is on a mission now to include more activities for differentially abled children and avail them for sponsorships.