Itanagar, September 9: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday visited the Donyi-Polo Mission School at Chimpū in Itanagar and interacted with children with hearing, visual and intellectual disabilities, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions with confidence and determination.
During his interaction with students, teachers and staff, Radhakrishnan urged the children not to allow their circumstances or other people’s opinions to limit their aspirations.
He emphasised that every individual has unique abilities and encouraged the students to set ambitious goals, believe in themselves and work consistently towards achieving them.
The Vice-President was visibly moved by a performance of “Vande Mataram” by the students. He praised their presentation and said it reflected a strong sense of patriotism and confidence.
Radhakrishnan appreciated the efforts of the Arunachal Pradesh government, the Donyi-Polo Mission, teachers, rehabilitation professionals and staff involved in providing education and support to children with disabilities.He said institutions providing specialised education play a wider role by helping students build dignity, confidence, independence and a sense of hope, besides providing academic learning.
Highlighting the growing role of technology, the Vice-President said artificial intelligence, digital learning tools and assistive technologies could help overcome barriers faced by students with disabilities.
He also appreciated initiatives aimed at developing AI-supported educational content and comprehensive support systems.Radhakrishnan praised teachers and staff for their patience, compassion and commitment and acknowledged the important role played by parents in supporting children with special needs.
He referred to the achievements of people who have overcome significant challenges, including entrepreneur Srikanth Bolla, and encouraged students to draw inspiration from such journeys.
During his visit, the Vice-President also toured the J.N. State Museum in Itanagar and appreciated its contribution towards preserving and showcasing the cultural and ethnographic heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast.
He said museums serve as a link between generations by helping preserve cultural traditions and encouraging younger people to value their heritage.Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Social Justice, Empowerment and Tribal Affairs Minister Kento Jini, senior officials and representatives of the school and Donyi-Polo Mission were among those present.
The visit highlighted the importance of inclusive education, technological support and social participation in creating opportunities for children with disabilities while also underscoring the need to preserve the region’s rich cultural heritage.
