Lions Club Organizes get-together for Teachers of Specially-Abled Students

Pune: “Teaching regular children comes with many challenges. In such circumstances, you teachers are doing commendable work by shaping the lives of differently-abled children, making them self-reliant and dignified. Your contribution in making these children independent is truly admirable,” stated Rajya Sabha MP Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni.

She was speaking at a felicitation ceremony for teachers of differently-abled students, organized by Lions Clubs International through the initiative of social worker Seema Dabke. The event was held at the Ganesh Auditorium of New English School on Tilak Road. Commissioner for the Welfare of the Disabled Praveen Puri, former Lions District Governors Dr. Deepak Shah, Ramesh Shah, Sachin Nahar, and event coordinator Seema Dabke were present at the program. The event also featured a special session by laughter yoga trainer Makarand Tillu.

On this occasion, individuals who have overcome disability and excelled in various fields — Amol Shingare, Abhijit Shingde, Tripti Chordiya, Sara Joshi, and Ritvik Joshi — were felicitated.

Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni further stated, “Teachers who educate differently-abled children are truly courageous. Government, administration, and NGOs must come together to empower them. This collective effort can help restore balance in nature. Instead of being dependent, these students should be transformed into valuable resources. Many socially conscious individuals are working at the grassroots level, complementing the government’s efforts. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds should be channeled into meaningful initiatives. A grand exhibition on the concept of ‘Divyang’ (differently-abled) should be organized.”

Praveen Puri added, “Behind every student’s success stand teachers and parents. Special efforts are being made to train differently-abled teachers and promote the use of modern technology. Plans are underway to provide special grants to unaided schools for the differently-abled. Innovative programs are being launched for the welfare of the differently-abled.”

Dr. Deepak Shah remarked, “Many people are doing great work in society. Thanks to such selfless individuals, society progresses. Differently-abled teachers are doing exceptional work, and their patience is truly inspiring.” Ramesh Shah emphasized that the initiative aims to bring a ray of hope into the lives of marginalized sections of society.

In her opening address, Seema Dabke said, “For the past four decades, initiatives for the differently-abled have been ongoing. Since last year, we have started this felicitation ceremony to honor the teachers who shape the lives of these children. This is a token of gratitude and appreciation for their invaluable work.”

The event began with a Ganesh Vandana by visually impaired Brahmadev Kate. The program was compered by Anjali Chouthai.