In a landmark development for the field of special education, SGT University, a prominent educational institution in the Delhi NCR region, has inaugurated UDAAN, a pioneering “School of Experiential Learning” for children with diverse learning needs. This special centre is set to redefine the landscape of special education and provide comprehensive support to individuals with special abilities, enabling them to reach their fullest potential.
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Dr. Malaika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, interacting with special students at SGTs UDAAN centre
The university and its Faculty of Physiotherapy also organised the ‘Healthy Athlete Screening’ last week, where over 300 special children from 20 different special schools participated. The event, aimed at promoting inclusiveness and well-being, featured thrilling sports activities, including 25m, 50m, and 100m sprint races and the bocce event, a key part of the Special Olympics. Mr. Manmohan Singh Chawla, Managing Trustee of Dashmesh Educational Charitable Trust, the principal sponsor of SGT University and Dr. Pooja Anand, Dean of the Faculty of Physiotherapy, ensured the events impeccable execution.
A significant highlight of the event was the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SGT University and Special Olympics Bharat (SOB). It was signed by Dr. Joginder Yadav, Registrar of SGT University, and Dr. Malaika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat. This partnership is focused on providing physiotherapeutic services and enhancing educational support for special students. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the empowerment of children with special needs, ensuring they have access to quality care and educational opportunities.
Dr. Malaika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, lauded SGT Universitys commitment to inclusivity towards providing support for special children. “Collaborations such as ‘Healthy Athlete Screening’ go a long way in creating an inclusive society. I hope more such events are held in the future so that our special children get the required exposure and opportunity to grow with pride.
Dr. Madhavi Sharma, Dean of the Faculty of Education at SGT, expressed her happiness at the inauguration of the School of Experiential Learning.She said, “We at UDAAN are dedicated to guiding students through their learning journey, equipping them with essential life skills, and preparing them to become productive, confident members of society. The Centre represents a comprehensive ecosystem designed to empower, nurture, and celebrate the unique potential of children with special abilities.” Ms. Poonam Talwar, who is in charge of UDAAN, provided additional insights into the centres services. She explained that the initiative comprehensively serves Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) through a range of specialised services, including physiotherapy, IQ testing, speech and audiology, and medical facilities.
The Healthy Athlete Screening event was attended by many esteemed dignitaries, including Sh. Mukesh Sharma (MLA, Gurugram), Sh. O.P. Dhankar (National Secretary, Bharatiya Janata Party), Ms. Mukta Narain Thind (National Director – Organisational Development, SOB), and Smt. Latika Sharma (President, SOB Haryana).
The collaboration between SGT University and SOB is set to create new avenues for inclusive education and healthcare, promoting the physical and mental well-being of children with special needs. With this initiative, SGT University is firmly positioned at the forefront of inclusivity, education, and empowerment for children with special needs in the region by offering a multi-disciplinary support system that includes occupational therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, counselling, and play therapy.
About SGT University
SGT University, Gurugram, one of Indias youngest “NAAC A+” universities, offers courses across 18 faculties, including various undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs. It has a noble mission of providing opportunities for higher education to all sections of society and a vision of bridging the existing skill gap and developing world-class industry professionals.
It is a research and innovation powerhouse and home to the world-class National Reference Simulation Centre for Nursing, founded in collaboration with Jhpiego, Laerdal Medical India, and the Indian Nursing Council. The university also has a multi-speciality SGT Hospital that is NABH and NABL accredited. The hospital serves the surrounding communities and provides practical experience to medical students.
SGT University is known for its advancements in medicine, dentistry, environmental science, engineering, and data science. The university has also partnered with world leaders to establish several “Centres of Excellence”, which support SGT Universitys efforts towards cutting-edge research and academic excellence. Because of the universitys strong industry connections, world-class labs have been established in partnership with well-known international organisations like Apple, IBM, SAP, Oracle, SMC India, UNESCO Bioethics, and many others.
