Awareness Programs – Building an Inclusive & Informed Society

Introduction

At Manovikas Special School, awareness is not just an initiative—it’s a mission to build a society that embraces inclusion, respect, and equality for persons with disabilities. Through a range of innovative and impactful awareness programs, we strive to educate the public, challenge social stigma, and empower families and communities to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

These programs are a vital part of our outreach strategy and are conducted under the broader framework of our community engagement efforts, supported by government initiatives like DDRS, SNAC, and collaboration with local bodies, educational institutions, and healthcare providers.

Objectives

Our Awareness Programs aim to:

• Dispel myths and misconceptions about intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Promote early identification and intervention in rural and urban areas.
• Sensitize school communities, public servants, and the general public about inclusion and disability rights.
• Provide information on available government schemes and support services.
• Empower parents and caregivers with knowledge and tools to support their children effectively.

Key Activities

1. School and College Outreach
   We conduct disability awareness sessions in mainstream schools and colleges, focusing on the importance of empathy, inclusion, and early identification. These interactive sessions include audiovisual presentations, storytelling, and student-led performances by Manovikas students.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns
   We organize rallies, exhibitions, and street plays to spread awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and the need for accessible environments. Campaigns are timed with important events like World Disability Day and Autism Awareness Month.
3. Workshops for Parents and Families
   Regular orientation programs, counseling sessions, and support groups are held for parents. Topics include early signs of developmental delays, behavioral management, navigating disability rights, and government welfare schemes.
4. Training for Teachers and Community Health Workers
   We train Anganwadi workers, primary school teachers, and ASHA health workers on recognizing early signs of disability and making appropriate referrals to intervention centers like Manovikas.
5. Legal Awareness and Rights Education
   With support from SNAC and National Trust, we host seminars on disability laws, guardianship, rights under RPWD Act (2016), and how to access legal protection and entitlements.

Impact

Our awareness programs have made a tangible difference:

• Thousands of individuals reached across Kollam and nearby districts.
• Increased number of children receiving early intervention after identification during campaigns.
• Improved attitudes among school children and teachers toward inclusion.
• Stronger collaboration with local government bodies for inclusive policy planning.

Collaborations

We collaborate with:

• Local Panchayats and District Social Justice Departments
• Schools and higher education institutions
• Hospitals and PHCs
• NGOs and disability rights groups

Future Vision

We aim to:

• Launch digital campaigns and online workshops to reach remote regions.
• Develop inclusive education toolkits for school teachers.
• Create a state-wide awareness caravan in partnership with SNAC and DDRS.

Through sustained, creative, and inclusive awareness efforts, Manovikas Special School continues to shift mindsets, foster empathy, and build bridges between people with disabilities and the larger community. 

Together, we can create a world where inclusion is not an option—but a way of life - Manovikas