ITANAGAR, Sep 9: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan urged students with special needs to dream big, believe in their abilities and never allow others to define the limits of their aspirations.
Radhakrishnan was addressing students, teachers and staff during his visit to the Donyi-Polo Mission School for the Hearing, Visually and Intellectually Impaired at Chimpu here on Wednesday.
The Vice-President said the visit to the institution left him deeply moved, particularly after listening to the students’ rendition of Vande Mataram. He said the song was rendered with such sincerity and emotion that he could feel the patriotism “coming from the heart” of the students.
Addressing the students, Radhakrishnan said every individual was unique and possessed talent, irrespective of physical or other challenges.
“Never allow anyone to define the limits of your dreams,” he said, encouraging the students to dream big, have confidence in themselves and work hard to achieve their goals.
Referring to the inspiring journey of entrepreneur and motivational figure Srikanth Bolla, he urged the students to draw inspiration from people who have overcome formidable challenges in life.
The Vice-President said institutions such as the Donyi-Polo Mission School provide much more than education, offering students hope, dignity, opportunity, confidence and self-reliance. Such institutions, he said, make a significant contribution towards building an inclusive Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
Highlighting the transformative role of technology, Radhakrishnan said Artificial Intelligence, digital tools and assistive technologies could help overcome barriers and make education more accessible and personalised.
He appreciated the Mission’s initiatives towards AI-enabled learning materials and holistic support for students.
The Vice-President also lauded the teachers, rehabilitation professionals and staff for their extraordinary patience, compassion and commitment in nurturing children with special needs. He acknowledged the important role of parents in supporting and encouraging their children.
Appreciating the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the Donyi-Polo Mission and the institution’s management and staff, Radhakrishnan said the achievements of the State Government under Chief Minister Pema Khandu covered “every spectrum of society”.
Concluding his interaction, the Vice-President expressed his gratitude to the students, saying, “Today, you have taught me a lot of things,” and acknowledged the inspiration he drew from their determination and spirit.
Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Social Justice & Empowerment and Tribal Affairs Minister Kento Jini, senior State Govt officials, representatives of the Donyi-Polo Mission and its management, teachers, rehabilitation professionals, staff and students were present on the occasion.
Earlier, the Vice-President visited the JN State Museum and appreciated its role in preserving and showcasing the rich ethnographic heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and the North-East.
He said museums serve as vital bridges between generations and play an important role in safeguarding cultural heritage and fostering pride in indigenous traditions. He also commended those associated with the museum for their efforts to preserve and promote the invaluable heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.