15 Mar 2021
Introduction
A sensitization campaign on inclusive education was conducted by She Hope Society for Women Entrepreneurs (SHSFWE) with the support of Jan Vikas Samiti under the theme “We ring the Bell” from 15th to 25th March. The campaign was run in different schools with active participation of children, teachers, public leaders and decision makers. The objective of this campaign was to raise awareness about inclusive education. The teachers and public leaders were enlightened about the imperativeness of inclusive education and how could it draw children to schools. The campaign had a tremendous response as schools willingly cooperated in this initiative and understood the honesty of organizers behind it. Apart from teachers, children depicted keen interest in the activities that were conducted during the program to sensitize fellow children, public and various stakeholders. Methodology We identified several schools for this campaign keeping in mind the roll of the schools, space and their reach in the community. The activities were subsequently devised with the involvement of children in a way that the message passed on is impactful and touch people. The teachers of these schools were also involved in these activities wherein they played different roles depicting various forms of disability. Through these activities the idea was to show people the problems children with special need face and what dissuades them from attending schools. People were also sensitized on creating an enabling environment for children in schools so that they do not drop out midway. Similarly, a commitment was obtained from various stakeholders about ensuring inclusive education in their respective areas. School authorities were sensitized about making schools accessible for children with disability and child friendly. A commitment was obtained from school authorities that they will ensure counseling and guidance program for teachers and parents to build positive attitudes towards children with disability. Teachers were sensitized about creating awareness among teachers to provide equal opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in classroom activities and ensure that these children get adequate learning material. While conducting these activities, school children made noise together for one minute in the schoolyard with plates and bells in order to sensitize community on the need of enrolling children with disabilities in schools. A signature campaign was also conducted wherein teachers, children, parents, school administration, community leaders etc vowed to lend their whole hearted support to this initiative. We had also planned rallies to take this campaign to the community but we were not allowed to hold them by the authorities in view of COVID-19. Achievements We catered to six schools during this campaign Total number of children participated in the campaign stands at 415 Number of public leaders who participated in the campaign was: 25 Number of Publications that covered the campaign 2 (local newspapers) It was also published on social media.