Prayatna Empowers 74 People With Special Needs In Pune

Prayatna, a Pune-based organisation, has been empowering people with special needs to build independent lives for nearly three decades. Founded in 1997 by Radiya Gohil, Mridula Das, and Nafisa Khambata, the organisation started with just seven students and two teachers. Today, it works with 74 students, including children and adults, supported by a staff of around 20 people.

The founders identified a gap in services available to young adults and adults with special needs, which led them to establish Prayatna. At the time, options were limited, and there was a lack of services that focused on continued development, creativity, and social growth. The organisation developed a programme that combines education with everyday abilities, including functional academics, daily living, and self-help skills.

Prayatna's programme is structured according to age and ability, catering to individuals with conditions such as Down's Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Younger children follow a specialised curriculum, while older students work on functional academics and daily-life skills. Those between 14 and 18 years are introduced to pre-vocational training, while adults focus on livelihood skills.

Over the years, Prayatna has expanded its work to include younger children. The organisation was approached by Bhatiya Samaj Seva Kendra, which had a group of children with special needs requiring support. This led to the development of a programme for children as young as five, while continuing to work with adults.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, vocational activities included creative work such as fabric and tie-dye projects, soap-making, and painting on diffusers. The organisation deliberately moved away from repetitive sheltered-workshop models and encouraged creativity and engagement. In the past four years, Prayatna has trained around 18 adults in barista and hospitality skills, with students working at food counters in Tata offices and undertaking internships at organisations such as Forbes Marshall and Thermax.

Prayatna's founders aim to create a space where children, young adults, and adults with special needs can learn, develop skills, and work towards greater independence. The organisation's work has made a significant impact on the lives of its students, providing them with the skills and confidence to lead independent lives.

The organisation's approach has been successful, with many students going on to work in various industries. Prayatna's focus on creativity, engagement, and livelihood skills has helped its students to develop a sense of purpose and independence. As the organisation continues to grow and expand its services, it remains committed to its mission of empowering people with special needs to build independent lives.

In the context of India's growing awareness of special needs and disability rights, Prayatna's work is significant. The organisation's approach to education and skill development has helped to challenge traditional notions of disability and empowerment. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, Prayatna has enabled its students to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, Prayatna's 29-year journey has been a remarkable one, empowering people with special needs to build independent lives. The organisation's commitment to its mission has made a lasting impact on the lives of its students, and its approach to education and skill development has helped to create a more inclusive and supportive society.