April 2025 Newsletter
Foreword
Warm greetings from Swabodhini!
April was a vibrant and meaningful month across all our centres. We began by commemorating World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April with a variety of engaging activities at all four locations. From impactful rallies and awareness sessions to interactive workshops for parents, the day was a celebration of inclusion, understanding, and community spirit.
On 5th April, we conducted an assessment camp at our Selaiyur centre, offering much-needed support to families in the neighbourhood and strengthening our outreach in the region.
As part of our Staff Development Programme, we organized a workshop on the NIOS curriculum, facilitated by Mr. Manikandan, which provided valuable insights and training for our educators.
We were also pleased to welcome distinguished visitors: Mr. Jibby Mathew from Ford Motors, and Ms. Sathya and Ms. Nagarathna from the Azim Premji Foundation. They toured our facilities and spent time interacting with our students and their parents, offering encouragement and appreciation for the work being done.
Our Progress Review Report (PRR) meetings were held across all centres, allowing parents to gain insights into their child’s development and celebrate milestones achieved during the year.
As always, we ended the month on a joyful note by celebrating the birthdays of our students and staff—a cherished tradition that brings smiles and strengthens bonds across our community.
We look forward to bringing you more updates in June!
Best Regards,
Nandini Priyakumari
Director
Swabodhini School and Vocational Center for Special Children
Autism in Focus: Weeklong Reflections
On 2nd April, Swabodhini came alive with energy as we celebrated World Autism Awareness Day across all our centres. The day was filled with inspiring activities, awareness programs, and active community involvement. Our students took the spotlight, showcasing their talents and demonstrating the power of inclusion and neurodiversity.
At the Selaiyur centre, staff led a powerful outreach initiative, raising awareness about autism among employees of Worth Trust Selaiyur. Through interactive activities, we highlighted the remarkable achievements of our students and emphasized the importance of acceptance and inclusion.
The celebration reached its peak with a vibrant Autism Awareness Rally, where staff and students marched proudly, holding banners and spreading powerful messages of inclusion. The streets echoed with slogans, smiles, and a collective voice advocating for autism awareness, helping to break the stigma and build a more inclusive community.
In addition, Dr. Shiva Prakash conducted a valuable workshop at Tondiarpet for staff and parents, offering insightful guidance on autism and strengthening our shared understanding.
Visitor from Ford Motors
We were privileged to welcome a distinguished visitor from Ford Motors, Mr. Jibby Mathew to our school. His visit not only strengthened our community ties but also highlighted the growing support for our mission. The interaction provided a valuable opportunity to share our work, build meaningful partnerships, and explore
collaborative efforts towards fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with special needs.
Assessment Camp: Empowering Individuals, Enriching Lives
On 5th April, Swabodhini conducted an assessment camp at the Rotary Club of Madras, Selaiyur. This initiative aimed to provide comprehensive evaluations and support for individuals with special needs. The event was an important step in offering personalized guidance and fostering greater awareness within the community.
Empowering Educators: NIOS Workshop for Teachers
Swabodhini hosted an informative NIOS workshop conducted by Mr. Manikandan for our teachers. The workshop focused on enhancing our educators’ understanding of the NIOS curriculum, equipping them with valuable tools and strategies to better support our students’ learning needs. It was a great opportunity for professional development and strengthening our commitment to providing quality education.
PRR Meeting
PRR (Progress Review Reports) meetings were conducted with trustees, the director, centre heads, teachers, and parents. These sessions serve as a vital platform to discuss each child’s progress, from academic achievements to social and behavioral milestones. By fostering open communication among all key stakeholders, we ensure that every child receives the personalized attention and support they need to thrive. These collaborative discussions are crucial in creating a unified approach to nurturing our learners’ success.
Visitors from Azim Premji Foundation
We were delighted to welcome visitors from the Azim Premji Foundation to our school for an insightful session. During their visit, they toured our Thiruvanmiyur and Tondiarpet centres, gaining a deeper understanding of our programs and impact. The conversation focused on exploring potential future collaborations, with a shared goal of advancing educational opportunities for individuals with special needs. Their visit opened the door to new possibilities for meaningful partnerships and collaborative initiatives to enhance our outreach.
Monthly Birthday Celebration
At Swabodhini, we make sure to celebrate the birthdays of our students and staff every month, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere. These celebrations not only bring the community together but also provide an opportunity to honor each individual, fostering a sense of belonging and warmth. The monthly birthday parties are a highlight for everyone, filled with laughter, games, and shared happiness.
