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HCL Foundation

HCL Foundation Supported Education & Inclusion Project

Building Inclusive Learning Opportunities for Children and Youth with Disabilities

With the support of HCL Foundation, Saksham is implementing an inclusive education and assistive technology initiative focused on empowering children and youth with disabilities through education, vocational training, and accessible learning environments.

The project works across government schools and resource centres in Gautam Buddha Nagar, strengthening inclusive classrooms, improving access to assistive technology, and supporting students through academic and vocational interventions.

Together, we’re shaping a brighter future!
A visually impaired girl in a school uniform explores raised tactile patterns in a large embossed learning book while sitting alongside another student during an inclusive classroom activity. Several students are seated together in the background on green mats, participating in the session.

Project Components

Inclusive Education Support

The project provides academic and educational support to students with disabilities through:

  • After-school academic support classes
  • Coordination with mainstream schools and teachers
  • Exam preparation and monitoring
  • Parent counselling and regular follow-ups
  • Advocacy for admission and inclusion in mainstream schools

Students are supported through both online and offline learning models to ensure continuity in education.

Assistive Technology & Accessible Learning

To improve accessibility in classrooms, Saksham has equipped government schools and resource centres with enabling kits and assistive devices including:

  • Android tablets with Bluetooth keyboards
  • DAISY players
  • Pocket frames
  • Accessible teaching-learning materials

Training workshops are also conducted for teachers and special educators to help them effectively use assistive devices and inclusive teaching methods in classrooms.

Vocational Education & Skill Development

The vocational training component focuses on building independent living and livelihood skills among youth with disabilities through:

  • Bakery and food preparation workshops
  • Mobile and laptop training
  • Communication and digital literacy skills
  • Exhibition stalls and sales opportunities
  • Entrepreneurship support

Students also participate in practical exposure activities and community-based learning experiences that promote confidence, dignity, and self-reliance

Students in school uniforms participate in a computer training session using laptops and accessible learning tools in a digital classroom.
Students explore a tactile map and Braille text in an embossed learning book during an inclusive classroom activity for visually impaired learners.
A student uses tactile diagrams and Braille markings in an embossed learning book to understand directional concepts through touch-based learning.

Key Achievements

Education & Inclusion

  • Students successfully attended regular classes and appeared for examinations with academic support.
  • Awareness workshops on disability inclusion and child protection were conducted for teachers and students.
  • Louis Braille Day and other inclusive events were celebrated with active participation from students and parents.
  • Students participated in Braille reading, writing, and computer competitions.

Vocational Empowerment

  • Vocational stalls were organized at multiple public venues including schools, malls, and exhibitions.
  • The permanent stall at Spectrum Mall continued successful operations.
  • Students received regular digital literacy and communication training.

Assistive Technology

  • Enabling kits were distributed in schools and resource centres across Dadri, Bisrakh, Jewar, and surrounding blocks.
  • Follow-up trainings were conducted for visually impaired students using assistive devices.
  • Teachers received practical orientation on inclusive classroom tools and strategies.
Community members, students, and educators attend an assistive technology and inclusive education program during an awareness and distribution event in Maharashtra, India.

Impact

The project has directly benefited students with disabilities, teachers, and families through inclusive education, accessible technology, and livelihood opportunities. It continues to strengthen the ecosystem for disability inclusion by promoting equal access to education, participation, and independence.