The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Kozhikode, is launching a project titled ‘Sargam’ to encourage creative talent among differently-abled students.
According to a press release issued by SSA district programme officer A.K. Abdul Hakkeem, the project will be launched in association with the Kerala Lalitakala Akademi, Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Akademi, and the Kerala Sahitya Akademi. It was conceived after realising that there are several differently-abled children who can write, sing, act and draw.
Differently-abled students from Class 1 to Class 8 will benefit from the project, which will begin with a three-day painting camp at Jubilee Hall, Kandamkulam, in the city on Wednesday. Seventy-two select children will participate in the programme to be conducted by the Lalitakala Akademi. Camps for those interested in theatre, literature and music will be held in the coming days.
Mr. Hakkeem told The Hindu that despite calling them “differently-abled” children, there had been very few attempts to encourage their abilities. “There may be children with artistic talents who don’t get a platform to showcase their skills and evolve. These camps will give them a stage for the purpose. It will also enhance their self-confidence and boost their survival skills,” he added. Minister for Education C. Ravindranath will formally inaugurate the project here on Friday. M.K. Raghavan, MP, will distribute certificates to the participants. A. Pradeep Kumar, MLA, will be present.