According to UNICEF, fifteen percent of the world’s population – at least one billion people – have some form of disability, whether present at birth or acquired later in life. Nearly 240 million of them are children and half of them have never attended school. UNICEF supports inclusive education as the most effective way for all children to go to school, learn and develop the skills they need to thrive.
RDT, our local partner, aligned with this idea and started its inclusive education program in 1996. Nowadays RDT is running 5 primary schools and 2 high schools for inclusive education in Andhra Pradesh, India, supporting over 700 children annually. RDT's inclusive education program allows equal access to education for abled and differently-abled children. An inclusive education setting strengthens the social integration of students with disabilities such that they feel a part of the community. It also teaches all students to be more accepting and tolerant of individual differences.
VFF USA considers that the education of children with disabilities is very important, especially in alliance with their social integration, which results in improved social development and academic outcomes for all learners.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is just around the corner. Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil and signifies light over darkness. But Diwali is more than that – it's a time for new beginnings and a time of year when we show our generosity to others less fortunate than ourselves. So why not this Diwali create a spark for children who cannot experience light or hear the sounds of crackers? Together, we can bring light to students with disabilities by supporting RDT’s inclusive education program.
You can help these kids reach their full potential — equipping them to attend school, learn need-based life skills, participate in their communities and grow up in an environment where they feel fully supported.
So, this Diwali, VFF USA invites you to spread your light by giving someone the gift of education, joy, and a smile. Education and skill development support will equip them to be independent and create their sparks, cheers, and careers. So, join the Festival of Light to Spread a Smile! A smile that lasts forever. Donate today.
Your donation will lighten up the future of 31 boys studying at RDT Primary School for inclusive education at Kadiri, 14 of them with disabilities.
Be the change this Diwali by sharing your joy and happiness with others.Happy Festive Season.
“Mi grandmother has taken care of me since I was one year old. She always worried a lot about my future. She thought it would be very difficult for me to study because I had a partial vision. But today, I’m the first in my family to graduate from the 10th grade. RDT inclusive schools give us the opportunity to learn with our different capacities. It makes me feel confident and independent that the school is completely adapted to all our needs. I can study with braille books, use the computer, and I can go to the classes, the dormitory, to play games and practice yoga following the pathway. But what I love more about my school is that it is inclusive. When I need a book in the library, my friends help me, and when we do homework, I help them. Studying here has taught me that we are all capable of doing anything and that everything works better if we support each other.” Says Nandini, a student of RDT inclusive schools.