A unique and one of its kind initiatives, Pune has now opened doors to it’s first Sensory Park in Kondhwa. It is essentially a public garden designed for citizens with special needs. Planned, designed and executed by the Poona Blind Men’s Association’s Technical Training Institute; it is a first for any institution providing skill training for specially-abled.
For the uninitiated, Poona Blind Men’s Association-Technical Training Institute has experienced professionals impart vocational training and rehabilitation services to visually impaired adults. The purpose of the park is to enhance all the senses of the ‘Disabled’ for overall development.
Offering sensory input to the mind, body and soul; the space adds aesthetic beauty to the campus. Planned as an ecofriendly premise, the park’s motive is to help individuals relax in a serene space while imbibing learning through an exploratory medium.
Named the Late Padma Shri Niranjan Pandya ‘SENSORY PARK’, the garden was inaugurated by Rati Forbes- Director at Forbes Marshall who were one of the major donors for the creation of the park.
Nitin Patil, the Disability Commissioner of Maharashtra was all praise for the team members’ efforts. Shedding light on the sensory park and its primary purpose, J.P Banerjee spoke of the overall development of Technical Training Institute of Poona Blind Men’s Association’s and vowed to do their best for the development of those visually impaired. He also said that he hoped it was just the beginning of more such parks across the country.
PMC Corporator Ashok Kamble congratulated Sudhir Sable– the Chairman of Technical Training Institute of Poona Blind Men’s Association. The latter spoke of a vision is to empower those visually impaired by helping them acquire job related skills and techniques as a key way to help them overcome their disability. This accompanies a rise in technological advances designed to assist those with disabilities and allow them a greater measure of independence (for example Hearing amplifiers). These in conjunction with training and skill development are a vital resource.
“Once they complete training, help is provided so they can find gainful employment. Some even opt for self-employment with the aid of our Employment Cell. We disseminate career information and offer regular counseling to them,” said Sudhir Sable.
He hinted at the 4C concept and explained that developing Competence, Capacity, Confidence and Courage was their best bet to face the world bravely.
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