Special Olympics Bharat and Education Department sign MoU to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities in Sikkim

GANGTOK, : In a landmark move towards building an inclusive society, Special Olympics Bharat – Sikkim Chapter (SOB-SC) and the Education Department, Government of Sikkim, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities across the State.

The MoU was formally signed on August 29 at Gangtok by the secretary (School Education), Education department and the president of Special Olympics Bharat, Sikkim Chapter. The agreement marks a significant step in fostering inclusivity and providing equitable platforms for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan), a press release informs.

The partnership will focus on a range of initiatives including organizing inclusive sporting events, mainstreaming special needs athletes, recognition and initiatives and capacity building of the intellectual disabled persons studying within the Special and Inclusive Schools of the Education department.

The MoU is a testament to the shared vision of the Special Olympic and the Government of Sikkim to create truly inclusive society, the release mentions. The signing of this MoU is a moment of great pride and hope for the people of Sikkim, signifying a new era of opportunity and recognition for its special needs population.

The MOU will bring about the implementation of inclusive games and sporting events in various forms. It will also expend its service if required to academic enrichment and exposure activities for the children with disabilities or CWSN (Children with Special Needs) as per the National Educational Policy 2020 and Right of Person With Disabilities Act 2016including providing learning opportunities and exposure visits that contribute to the overall development of the disabled individuals, the release mentions.