Empowering Voices on World Cerebral Palsy Day – 2023

Celebrating Ability, Inclusion, & Community at Manovikas Special School

Manovikas Special School came alive with purpose and passion on World Cerebral Palsy Day 2023, joining the global movement to celebrate, support, and empower individuals living with cerebral palsy. The event served as a vibrant reminder that every voice matters and that inclusivity begins with awareness and compassion.

With the theme “Beyond Limits,” this year's observance aimed to shine a spotlight on the resilience, potential, and rights of individuals with cerebral palsy. The occasion brought together a diverse community — students, parents, teachers, caregivers, and local dignitaries — all united in their mission to promote a more inclusive society.

The day began with a warm welcome address, followed by an inauguration ceremony attended by respected members of the community. The dignitaries shared encouraging words emphasizing the significance of early intervention, inclusive education, and accessible healthcare services in improving the quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.

A key highlight was the series of inspirational talks delivered by educators, parents, and healthcare advocates. Each speaker shared moving stories of courage, patience, and breakthrough moments experienced in the journey of supporting children with disabilities. These firsthand accounts painted a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by families, while also highlighting the role of special schools like Manovikas in creating nurturing environments for holistic development.

Equally inspiring were the students themselves, particularly children with cerebral palsy, who were not just attendees but active participants. Their involvement in the event — through songs, storytelling, and performances — was a testament to their capabilities and the confidence instilled in them through inclusive education. Every applause they received was a step toward changing societal perceptions and breaking the stigma often associated with disabilities.

Parents in the audience expressed their appreciation for the platform provided by the school, not just for their children’s education but for their emotional and social development. One parent shared, “Today, I don’t just see my child as someone with a condition — I see him as someone with a voice, and that voice was heard today.”

The program also included interactive discussions on available support systems, government schemes, and local resources for families and caregivers of children with cerebral palsy. These sessions aimed to empower families with knowledge and instill a sense of community where shared experiences can lead to collective progress.

Throughout the event, one message echoed louder than any other — disability is not inability. With the right support, every child can dream, grow, and succeed beyond limits.

As the event concluded with group photographs and light refreshments, there was a shared sense of pride and renewed determination to advocate for equal rights, accessibility, and opportunities for all.

World Cerebral Palsy Day 2023 at Manovikas Special School was not just a commemoration — it was a celebration of strength, inclusion, and boundless human potential.