Baramulla: The Zonal Education Office (ZEO) Fatehgarh organized a day-long impactful ‘Environment Building Programme’ focused on Children with Special Needs (CWSN) at Higher Secondary School Audora focused on strengthening inclusive education on Wednesday.
The event brought together experts, educators, parents, students, health officials, and special educators. Senior Innovative Educator Reyaz Ahmad Ganai of BMS Sheeri Payeen welcomed the guests and emphasized the contribution of such programmes toward fostering creative and inclusive teaching practices.
“Every child carries a spark. Our role is to nurture it with care, patience, and understanding,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, teacher and Islamic scholar, Salik Bilal said that Islam and every religion teach compassion and respect for every child and CWSN children have indeed special values taught by every faith.
Addressing the gathering, RBSK NHM Head, Health Block Sheeri, Dr. Rouf, a leading school health expert, highlighted RBSK’s critical role in the early detection, timely treatment, and free referral services for children from birth to 18 years.
He detailed that RBSK encompasses newborns, Anganwadi children, and school-going students up to class 12, focusing on the “4 Ds” — Defects at Birth, Diseases, Developmental Delays & Disabilities, and Deficiencies.
Renowned teacher and father of a CWSN student, Reyaz Ahmad Malik, narrated the challenges he faces as a parent, emphasizing that children with special needs are not defined by their limitations but by their abilities, strengths, and unique perspectives. He reminded the audience that, as educators and community members, it is our duty to ensure every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to learn and grow.
Divisional Resource Person and Headmaster Sheikh Haroon said, “Empathy and awareness are key to transforming classrooms into inclusive learning spaces.”
“Children with special needs are not defined by their limitations but by their abilities, strengths, and unique perspectives. As educators and community members, it is our duty to ensure every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to learn and grow,” he added.
Anzar Mohju, a renowned Writer & Vice President, Down Syndrome Association said that “Children with special needs deserve equal opportunities, acceptance, and dignified support with sympathy.”
Altaf Hussain Rather, Zonal Nodal Officer CWSN said, “Collaboration among teachers, parents, and schools ensures that no child is left behind. Implementing inclusive policies with sincerity can reshape the future of hundreds of children.”
In his concluding remarks, Rather, he further said, appreciated the efforts of ZEO Tanveer Aga, the school administration, resource persons, and participants for their enthusiastic involvement. He stated, “Inclusion is essential for a progressive education system. Together, we can ensure dignity and opportunities for every child.”
The programme proceedings were conducted by dynamic teacher Sajad Ahmad Lone concluded with a collective pledge to advance the welfare, dignity, and holistic development of children with special needs under the RBSK framework.