A wise quote from Martina Navratilova says, “Disability is a matter of perception. If you can do just one thing well, you’re needed by someone.” Guided by this profound belief, CHINAR Kashmir, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Handicapped Association (JKHCA), ENABLE India and Benetech, hosted a transformative 15-day digital literacy program for visually impaired children at its world-class campus in Khanpora, Budgam. The program aims to empower visually impaired children with essential computer skills, helping them thrive in today’s digital landscape and proving their abilities hold limitless potential.
The event began with a heartfelt tribute to the late Abdul Rashid Teli, founding member and director of CHINAR Kashmir, and the late Mohammad Syed Rawa, Associate Director of CHINAR Kashmir. Their tireless dedication to social work and empowerment continues to inspire initiatives like this program.
CHINAR Kashmir‘s campus served as a beacon of hope and possibilities for the program. The organization provided world-class infrastructure, meals, and operational support, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive learning environment. ENABLE India generously donated laptops for the program, while Benetech sponsored the training sessions. JKHCA facilitated the overall program with exceptional coordination.
This initiative was spearheaded by two passionate disability activists and senior volunteers, Abrar Ahmed from JKHCA and Abdul Wajid from CHINAR Kashmir, whose shared commitment to empowering differently-abled individuals brought the program to life. Their efforts and the unwavering support of their respective boards and teams were instrumental in the program’s success.
The program, centred on the belief that every individual has something valuable to offer, also included the distribution of laptops and accessories to the children. These tools act as enablers, bridging gaps and unlocking doors to new opportunities. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of digital literacy in fostering independence, breaking barriers, and creating pathways to personal and professional growth.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries who echoed the program’s guiding philosophy:
– Mr. Wali Mohammad Malik, Director, CHINAR Kashmir
– Mr. Abdul Rashid Bhat, President, JKHCA
– Mr. Humayoun Qaisar, Former Director, Radio Kashmir Srinagar
– Mr. Javid Parsa, CEO, Parsa Foods
– Mr. Ashiq Ahmad, VMS Bemina
– Mr. Akhtar Ahmad Khan, Braille Quran Instructor, Numania Banihal
– Mr. Feroz Ahmad Khan, Member, Child Welfare Committee, Budgam
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Wali Mohammad Malik underscored CHINAR Kashmir’s dedication to providing accessible education and modern facilities that empower children to overcome challenges and realize their full potential. He emphasized that Disability is not a limitation but a unique perspective that enriches society.
The program concluded with reaffirmations from the dignitaries, who celebrated the collaborative effort and pledged continued support for empowering differently-abled children through education and technology. The heartfelt gratitude expressed by the children, their families, and the community underscored the program’s profound impact.
Glimpses from the event:
CHINAR Kashmir takes immense pride in hosting this transformative initiative. With this inclusive program, CHINAR Kashmir remains committed to reshaping perceptions about Disability and fostering empowerment across Jammu and Kashmir.