Five students of Bethshan Special School were given offer letters by a hotelier in a bid to integrate persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities into mainstream society, here on Wednesday.
A. Jayapal, school coordinator said, “It becomes difficult to integrate our special children in daily jobs. Some people feel that they may not have the right qualification or may disrupt their work environment. Some kind souls, however, see the bright side of our children, skills and tireless hard work.” The 22-year-old school has initiated vocational training and teaches students various skills, including cooking and mechanical work.
Pat for parents
M.V. Muralidaran, Judge, Madras High Court, who presided over the function, complimented the parents for their patience in bringing up the special children. Students A. Mukesh Sundar, S. Sibi, C. Sandiadevi, P. Durai Raj and S. Sivasankaran received their offer letters from Rishwanth Jayaraj, Director Of Operations, JC Residency. “We aim to ensure that at least 10% of our total staff strength is made up of differently abled people. This is only our first step,” he said.
K. Swamidurrai, president, Madurai Bench of Madras High Court Advocates’ Association, praised the students from the school representing India at the paralympics next year. The parents thanked the school and the hotel management for providing their children the opportunity.
Mr. Jayapal added that a joint account would be opened to ensure that the salary was used only for emergencies and for the betterment of the child.
