Empowering PwDs through Vocational Skills at the South Zone Regional Abilympics
Bengaluru – October 18th, 2024
The South Zone Regional Abilympics 2024, organized by the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), concluded successfully today at St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru. The event celebrated the incredible talents of around 100 Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Telangana, as they showcased their skills across 15 vocational categories, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Crafts, Food and Services.
Shri Das Suryavamshi, the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Karnataka, served as the Chief Guest for the Valedictory Ceremony and lauded the participants. He stated, “NAAI’s commendable work in organizing these Abilympics showcases the hidden talents of the divyangjans. Our winners will represent India at the International Abilympics. To further this mission, we need to establish centers across states for skill development.”
This year’s event saw a fierce competition, with 18 participants taking home medals. The breakdown of the awards includes 2 Gold, 8 Silver, and 8 Bronze medals.
Noteworthy Achievements
In the ICT category, Lakhani Chouhan secured the Gold in Word Processing, while E. Mohan from Tamil Nadu took home the Silver, and Bitupan from Mysore (Karnataka) earned the Bronze.
In Computer Programming, Pankaj Saini from Karnataka won Silver, while Rajtilak Murugaraju earned Bronze in Data Processing, and Madhu M from Karnataka secured Bronze in Web Page Designing.
In the Photography competition, Aditya S from Tamil Nadu clinched the Gold, with Harishanthan from Tamil Nadu earning Silver.
Crafts Category Highlights
The Crafts category displayed inspiring talent, including:
- Govindhan P from Chennai, who has a Locomotor Disability, winning Bronze in Floral Arrangement.
- Harsha secured Silver in Embroidery.
- Prathiksha from Mysore, who is visually impaired, won Bronze in Waste Reuse.
- In the Painting (Water Colour) category, Justin K.J from Kerala, who is hearing impaired, earned Silver, while Rashmi R from Karnataka, also hearing impaired, won Bronze.
Hospitality & Restaurant Services
The Hospitality category saw R. Sathish Kumar from Tamil Nadu, with a Locomotor Disability, earning a Silver medal. In Dress Making, Gourd from Mysore, who is hearing impaired, took home Silver, and Muthulakshmi G from Tamil Nadu received Bronze.
Voices of Encouragement
Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Secretary General of NAAI and Founder & CEO of Sarthak Educational Trust, remarked, “This year’s Abilympics has been a powerful testament to the talent and determination of PwDs across Southern India. The enthusiasm of participants and their remarkable skills in diverse vocational categories reflect their capability and readiness for inclusion in the workforce. These competitions are pivotal steps in breaking down societal barriers and promoting an inclusive workforce where every individual has a chance to shine.”
Mr. Pankaj Singh, Chief CSR – Corporate, T&D & Generation Function, Tata Power, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We have multiple initiatives running for the cause of disability and inclusion. Our association will continue with NAAI and Sarthak for the International Abilympics. Let us continue to champion these efforts and work together to create a more inclusive society where every individual is valued for their unique contributions.”
Allen Godfrey, Head of the School of Social Work at St. Joseph’s University, added, “It was a refreshing program for us, and it was a moment of pride to collaborate with Sarthak and the National Abilympic Association of India.”
The Road to International Recognition
India’s triumph at the 10th International Abilympics in Metz, France, where the team secured seven medals, served as a motivating backdrop for this regional event. The South Zone Regional Abilympics is a key part of a larger preparation process for the 11th International Abilympics, set to take place in Finland in 2027, further highlighting the journey of PwDs in gaining international recognition for their skills.
The event reinforced the importance of vocational training in critical sectors such as ICT, hospitality, retail, and crafts, equipping PwDs with the skills needed for self-reliance and opening doors to meaningful employment opportunities. As the South Zone Regional Abilympics 2024 concludes, the focus shifts to fostering greater inclusion and empowerment through continuous skill development and support for PwDs across India.