Bhubaneswar: December 17: KiiT International School marked the 10th Foundation Day of SEN Globe, witnessing emotional and inspiring speeches by prominent dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Surama Padhy, and the Founder of KIIT and KISS, Dr. Achyuta Samanta.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, the Speaker expressed admiration for the unique initiative of SEN Globe. She urged parents of special children not to lose hope but to view their roles as an opportunity to serve a noble cause. Stressing the importance of vocational training, she shared her observations from a visit to Australia, where schools empower special children through skills like toy-making. She called upon teachers and therapists to continue their efforts with utmost dedication, underscoring that these children are also nation-builders.
Padhy, describing the special children as divine creations of God, encouraged parents and teachers not to feel disheartened but to approach these challenges with enthusiasm and understanding. “If we equip these children with life skills and vocational education, they can become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
Dr. Samanta emphasized that children with special needs have equal rights to live alongside others and highlighted SEN Globe’s unique approach as the only programme in the country integrated into a mainstream school. “Here, children with special needs are taught alongside regular students, under one roof, as equals. This is not a segregated initiative,” he said, adding that KiiT International School is ranked among the top 10 in the country.
Dr. Samanta further shared that ten students from SEN Globe have already progressed to higher education at KIIT University, exemplifying the programme’s success. He assured parents that the school would focus more on skill education, enabling children with special needs to contribute meaningfully to society.
Chairperson Monalisa Bal emphasized that inclusive education fosters a sense of belongingness among all children. Her vision set the tone for the celebration, highlighting the need to integrate students with special needs into mainstream education.
The programme also saw KIIT and KISS President Saswati Bal greeting the children and wishing parents and teachers for their exemplary contribution in shaping the future of the special children.
School Principal Sanjay Suar reiterated the school’s commitment to holistic education. The event also saw the felicitation of eminent academicians Prof. U.N. Dash, former Professor of Utkal and Delhi Universities, and Prof. Haresh Mishra, Research Advisor at SISER, for their contributions to education and research.
In a significant highlight, the first investiture ceremony was held, where the newly elected Head Boy and Head Girl of KIIT International School were pinned with badges by the Speaker.
