Deaf and Disabled Children Receive Comprehensive Education in Nepalgunj

Nepalgunj, October 16, 2023 - The Deaf and Handicapped Children's Home situated in Baijnath Rural Municipality-1, Banke District, has opened its doors to over 44 deaf and disabled children from various districts, offering them not only shelter but also an education. This initiative, pioneered by Reri Banke, provides these children with free food, accommodation, and a chance at a brighter future.

Key Highlights:

• Inclusive Education: Of the children residing in the home, 37 are receiving free education at Sri Dahit Basic Secondary School. The remaining students are enrolled at Suryodaya High School, Chisapani.

• Embracing Diversity: The children come from a variety of districts including Jumla, Humla, Mugu, Kalikot, Dailekh, Banke, Bardia, Dang, and many others. The dedication of the institution is evident in its commitment to teaching in sign language, ensuring no child is left behind.

• Tailored Teaching Methods: Shanti Sharma, a dedicated teacher at the school, shared that students from grades 1 to 3 are taught separately. Post this, from grades 4 to 8, they merge with other students for a more integrated learning experience. Furthermore, students seeking secondary and higher secondary education are transferred to Suryodaya Mavi Chisapani.

• Home Comforts: Reri Banke ensures that during long vacations, including festive periods, students have the option to visit their families, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

• Student Feedback: The majority of kindergarten students expressed immense gratitude, emphasizing their happiness in acquiring reading and writing skills despite their disabilities.

• Challenges Faced: The institution, while doing commendable work, faces challenges. Sri Dahit Basic Secondary School currently employs only two deaf and disabled teachers proficient in sign language. Additionally, the school is in need of vital physical infrastructure, such as playgrounds.

• A Call for Support: Anju Pariyar, a teacher at the school, emphasized the need for specialized programs tailored to deaf and disabled children. She urged not only local bodies but also state and central governments to extend their support, ensuring these children have a promising future.

The efforts of the Deaf and Handicapped Children's Home, combined with the dedication of teachers like Shanti Sharma and Anju Pariyar, shine a light on the importance of inclusive education. It stands as a testament to the difference that community-driven initiatives can make in the lives of those often left on the margins.