DAD Special School: A beacon of hope for special children in Coimbatore

November 7, 2023 Unknown Wizards Valli Sarvani No comments

In Coimbatore, a city known for its educational institutions, the availability of inclusive education for children with disabilities remains a challenge. While some private schools cater to these students, the exorbitant fees make them inaccessible for many.

In this educational landscape, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Dream Special School (DADSS) shines as a beacon of hope, offering free education and therapy to children with autism and locomotive disabilities.

Launched in September 2023, DADSS was founded by C Jayaprabha, herself a person with disabilities. It serves as a lifeline for economically disadvantaged families.

The school’s mission goes beyond education; it generates employment opportunities for single parents, creating a holistic support system for children with disabilities.

Jayaprabha, who understands the challenges of being a single parent firsthand, emphasizes the school’s role in helping both children and their parents.

With a vision that stems from her earlier initiative, the Coimbatore District Welfare Association for Differently Abled Women, DADSS caters to 17 full-time and 10 part-time students, enriching their lives with an integrated learning experience.

DADSS operates on a unique concept, i.e. ‘of the disabled, by the disabled, for the disabled’ motto. It provides various modes of therapy, including physical, speech, art/craft, and occupational therapy.

Unlike government schools primarily focused on early intervention and private establishments charging high fees, DADSS stands apart by offering these services entirely free of charge.

The initiative has garnered support and applause from parents, who view DADSS as a game-changer, offering holistic care for their autistic children. While the school has received support from organizations like the Ekam Foundation and BOSCH, it still requires additional assistance to enhance its infrastructure and provide vocational and music/dance therapy.

CV Balasubramanian, an educational board director of the school, expressed the need for specialists in vocational, hydro, and music/dance therapy.

DADSS is looking for financial aid to fund essential infrastructure improvements. These include building repairs, therapy equipment, and facilities to support para-sports and self-employment activities.

Jayaprabha welcomes visitors to the school to witness the remarkable work being carried out there.

Despite the challenges of running DADSS free of charge, the school stands as a testament to the power of community support.

It serves as a beacon of hope for disabled children in Coimbatore and showcases the remarkable impact that individuals with vision and determination can make in their communities.

Image by Kumaraguru from Pixahive (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)