Sasraya News ★ Shillong, Meghalaya: The Meghalaya Unit of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation, in collaboration with CRC Dhankheti, Shillong, observed the 95th birth anniversary of former President of India and renowned scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam with a special programme dedicated to children with special needs. The event celebrated his enduring legacy of knowledge, innovation, compassion and inclusive education.
The programme began with floral tributes to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, fondly remembered as the ‘Missile Man of India’, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony and the felicitation of the organisers and members associated with the initiative.
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The Administrative Officer of CRC Dhankheti delivered the welcome address, extending greetings to the dignitaries, participants, organisers and children present at the programme. Addressing the gathering, Director Ram Sakal Sahani emphasised the importance of the National Education Policy (NEP) and its focus on skill development and inclusive learning opportunities for children with special needs.
He highlighted the need to create an educational environment that enables every child to develop individual abilities, acquire practical skills and move towards greater independence.
Smt Falguni Chakraborty, President of the Meghalaya Unit of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation, encouraged and motivated the children through an inspiring message on inclusive education.
She stressed that every child possesses unique abilities and deserves equal opportunities to learn, grow and succeed. Reinforcing her faith in the potential of children with special needs, she said that they could achieve anything and everything, describing them as ‘children of God’. A motivational speech was also delivered by Dr Rajat Bhattacharjee, Joint Secretary of the Meghalaya Unit of the Foundation. His address further strengthened the programme’s message of encouragement, confidence and the importance of nurturing the talents of children.
The cultural segment featured a welcome dance performed by Dr Nita Dey. This was followed by a series of competitions in which students enthusiastically participated in drawing, singing, dancing, fancy dress and poem recitation. The events provided the children with an opportunity to express their creativity, showcase their talents and participate in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Competition Results
Drawing Competition
– First Prize: Tanmoy Das
– Second Prize: Ashraf Uddin Laskar
– Third Prize: Ibrahim Yusuf
– Consolation Prizes: Alishba Fatima and Nikor Meya I. L. Talang
Singing Competition
– First Prize: Ashraf Uddin Laskar
– Second Prize: Tanmoy Das
– Third Prize: Alishba Fatima
Dancing Competition
– First Prize: Ajay Das
– Second Prize: Alfred Rani
– Third Prize: Alishba Fatima
– Consolation Prize: Tanmoy Das
Fancy Dress Competition
– First Prize: Zyan Ali
– Second Prize: Ibrahim Yusuf
– Third Prize: Eliana H. Nongspung
– Consolation Prizes: Dilpreet Mashi and Tanmoy Das
Poem Recitation Competition
– First Prize: Tanmoy Das
The competitions reflected the enthusiasm, confidence and creative potential of the participating children. The recognition of their achievements added a special dimension to the celebration, making the occasion both memorable and encouraging for the students and their families.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Sujoy Kumar Das, Secretary of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Foundation, who acknowledged the contributions of the organisers, CRC Dhankheti, participating members and everyone who helped make the event successful.
The celebration served as a meaningful tribute to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s vision of an educated, empowered and inclusive India. By bringing children with special needs into the centre of the celebration, the initiative reaffirmed the importance of equal opportunities, dignity, encouragement and education for all. The event conveyed a powerful message: every child deserves the opportunity to discover their potential, express their talents and contribute to society with confidence.
