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PREPARING EVERY CHILD TO BE A DIGNIFIED AND EMPOWERED MEMBER OF SOCIETY

In 1999, amidst doubt and convention, Shanthi Venkat—a compassionate special educator—chose to dream differently. She envisioned a sanctuary where the spark within every intellectually disabled child could be nurtured into a flame of potential. With the support of dedicated parents and generous well‑wishers, her vision took root and gave life to Sri Vidhyas Centre.

From its humble beginnings with just eight children, the Centre has grown into a vibrant community serving nearly 150 students today. Within its walls, laughter, determination, and hope resound daily—affirming the belief that every child, regardless of ability, deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Sri Vidhyas is more than a school; it is a testament to resilience and the power of belief. Here, children are not only taught but empowered—equipped with confidence, independence, and the skills to navigate life with dignity.

In 2017, the Centre entered a new chapter with the inauguration of a 15,000‑square‑foot facility designed to meet the diverse needs of children with disabilities, particularly those with autism. This state‑of‑the‑art space stands as a beacon of inclusion, offering tailored educational environments that celebrate each child’s unique strengths.

At Sri Vidhyas Centre, education is a journey of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. We champion the extraordinary in every child, one life‑changing step at a time.

What sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity. Beyond supporting intellectually disabled children, we extend our services free of cost to many students from neighboring underprivileged communities—children who might otherwise never have access to such facilities or expertise.

MISSION OF SRI VIDHYA

                • Deliver specialized, intensive training for children with cognitive and developmental disabilities.

                • Empower students to achieve self‑reliance by nurturing essential life skills and providing vocational training opportunities.

                • Promote inclusion by facilitating the integration of children with special needs into mainstream society.

                • Offer comprehensive support and guidance to parents and families, strengthening their role in the child’s journey.

                • Raise public awareness about cognitive disabilities, fostering empathy, positive interactions, and a more inclusive community.

IMPACT

Sri Vidhya proudly celebrates the achievement of ten special children who have secured placements outside its walls. These children, equipped with knowledge of higher concepts and essential life skills, are now prepared for roles in various industries, from supermarkets to beauty parlours.

 

But Sri Vidhya’s impact extends beyond vocational success. For parents of intellectually challenged children like Divya, the journey is fraught with emotional turmoil and isolation. Divya’s story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and education, illuminating the path toward inclusivity and acceptance.

 

From Struggle to Strength: Divya’s Inspirational Journey

 

At the tender age of seven, Divya stepped through the doors of Sri Vidhya, her young heart carrying the weight of a mild learning challenge. Divya grappled with life’s trials, with her mother toiling away and her father absent, seeking refuge from the tumult of an imperfect home life. As societal judgment glared at them, her mother sought solace in remarriage, yearning for stability and support. Yet, within the confines of this new family dynamic, Divya remained a stranger, her presence tolerated but not embraced. In the face of such isolation, the hostel emerged as her home, offering solace amidst a sea of uncertainty. Within these walls, Divya found stability and a sense of belonging, her spirit buoyed by the support of her newfound family at Sri Vidhya.

 

Despite her outward appearance of normalcy, Divya’s academic journey has been marked by significant challenges. While she may blend in with her peers, a noticeable gap exists between her scholastic achievements and those of her counterparts. Initially able to write her name and count to twenty, Divya’s progress has been slow and steady. Now, she can confidently identify various vegetables, comprehend basic instructions, and perform simple arithmetic tasks. 

 

Yet, her journey is not without obstacles. Divya grapples with communication barriers and interruptions in her thought process, hindering her ability to express herself fully. However, she has made remarkable strides on the domestic front, mastering household tasks and caring for her peers with compassion and efficiency. From folding clothes to mastering the intricacies of domestic gadgets, Divya’s journey on the home front is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as basic household chores has evolved into a mastery of culinary skills, as she easily prepares meals and brews tea. From ironing clothes to preparing for traditional rituals, she embraces each task enthusiastically and gracefully. Not content with cleaning, Divya sweeps, washes, and dusts with meticulous care, ensuring every corner gleams perfectly.

 

But her talents extend far beyond household duties. Divya takes on the responsibility of managing medication for her peers, displaying a level of compassion and maturity well beyond her years. Even in matters of personal grooming, Divya excels. She deftly braids her hair with practised hands and sews on buttons, showcasing her independence and resourcefulness.

 

Through Sri Vidhya’s vocational training program, Divya has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a confident and capable individual. With newfound skills and self-assurance, she has taken on leadership roles, becoming a mentor and sister figure to her peers. Responsible for managing their wardrobe, medical needs, and various activities, Divya’s reliability and competence shine through.

 

What once seemed like challenges have now become her greatest assets. Divya’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination, proving that one can overcome any obstacle with the right support and guidance. No longer defined by societal labels, she stands tall as a shining example of triumph over adversity, her unique gifts celebrated and embraced by all.

 

Awards:

 

  1. The State Bank of Hyderabad recognized Divya’s artistic talents with a prestigious drawing prize. Her captivating artwork earned her accolades and secured a coveted spot in the bank’s yearly calendar, showcasing her talent to a wider audience.
  2. Divya’s exceptional achievements garnered the attention of Vikalangula Pilupu, who honoured her with a well-deserved prize. This recognition not only celebrates Divya’s individual accomplishments but also serves as a testament to her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.

Sri Vidhyas Hostel has been a transformative haven for Divya, catalyzing profound changes in her demeanour, mindset, and abilities. Through dedicated guidance, she has mastered essential social and domestic skills and blossomed into a confident and charismatic young woman. No longer defined by shyness or inhibition, Divya’s newfound confidence has garnered acceptance and integration within her family circle.

 

In a testament to her progress, Divya’s family has embraced her fully, recognizing her newfound independence and maturity. To secure her future even further, the school contemplated a marriage plan for Divya, particularly when an offer of alliance arrived from the family of a physically handicapped groom. With their generous offer to finance the wedding, Divya’s journey takes a profound leap forward.

 

Now a married woman, Divya embarks on a new chapter, symbolizing a remarkable milestone in her journey of rehabilitation and growth. This significant step highlights Divya’s resilience and determination and promises a bright and promising future filled with newfound opportunities and possibilities.