SENAPATI, Dec 4: Maneda observed the 22nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Hope Centre, Maneda (Old Monday Market) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for Advance progress.”
The programme was graced by Col Sandeep Sharma, Commanding Officer of 16 AR, as the Chief Guest. The event began with an invocation by Rev. K. Daniel, President of SKABU, followed by a warm welcome address from Dr. Esther, Physiotherapist at Maneda.
The gathering was moved by emotional performances from students of Innocent Smiles School and singer Loveinai Esther, who dedicated their performances to children with special needs.
A deeply touching moment came when two parents, Mr. Palmei Michael and Mrs. J. Savitri, shared personal testimonies of their children’s progress at Maneda — stories that brought many in the hall to tears.
J. Savitri, a mother of four, spoke bravely about her youngest son, aged 2 years and 4 months, who has cerebral palsy. She shared how her family struggled with fear and uncertainty as her child had difficulty responding, moving, and communicating.
Everything changed after he joined Maneda School of Disability. With visible emotion, she said her son now smiles more, responds better, and shows small but important improvements every day.
“He tries… and that means everything to us,” she expressed, thanking the teachers and caregivers for restoring hope in her family. She encouraged other parents not to hide their children or lose hope, saying, “They are gifts. With love and support, they can shine beautifully.”
Another parent, Palmei Michael, shared his 6-year-old son’s journey. After struggling in a regular school and later trying homeschooling, the family found Maneda — a decision that changed their lives.
Within six months, their son began speaking in words and short sentences instead of only syllables. He also learned to write the English alphabet A-Z and showed major improvement in toilet discipline.
With pride and relief in his voice, he called the progress “a blessing we had been waiting for.”
T. Peter Rangnamai, Secretary of Maneda, briefly shared the institution’s journey — founded with a mission to support children who often go unnoticed and to build a community that embraces every child with dignity.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Col Sandeep Sharma said the event humbled him deeply. He reminded everyone how many people constantly ask for more in life, while these children show strength simply in trying each day.
He expressed gratitude to God for the perfect body we all have and heartfelt appreciation for the teachers and the institution, acknowledging their service as “a true act of humanity and a blessing for society.”
The event concluded with special gift by Chief Guest to every disable students of Maneda , he also seek commitment from all present to build a world where every child with disability is given love, respect, and equal opportunity to grow.
