‘We don’t want sympathy; we want equal opportunity’
Srinagar, Feb 02: Students of Abhinandan Home, Solina Srinagar, run under the Department of Social Welfare, Kashmir, have delivered an encouraging performance in the Class 11 Annual Examination 2025, proving once again that physical or intellectual challenges are no barrier to academic excellence when given the right support.
As per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), all appearing students, classified as CWNS (Children With Special Needs), passed the examination, with a large number securing distinctions and first divisions, reflecting the sustained efforts of both students and teachers at the institution.
Principal Mudasir Ahmad attributed the success to collective dedication and perseverance. “These results are a reflection of the tireless hard work put in by our students and teachers. Despite challenges, our children showed determination, discipline and confidence. We are proud of each one of them,” he said.
He said 17 students appeared in the examination, and among them, 14 secured distinction. The result, the Principal said, was 100 per cent.
Those who secured distinction include Muntaha Muneer – 449, Sahil Mehraj – 435, Sadiya Parveez – 430, Subee Ashraf – 416, Nayilah Jaan – 415, Mehak Jaan – 410, Sheikh Adnan Mehraj 409, Mohammad Sameer – 394, Abdul Wajid Sheikh – 391, Salim Khan – 386, Ahsanullah- 384, Suhaib Amin – 380, Simran Shafi (375), Ateeb Bashir – 374, Usman Bashir – 366, Ulfat Jaan – 351 and Mehvish Khazir – 338.
While celebrating their success, students raised a collective demand for better educational infrastructure for the specially-abled persons.
Muntaha Muneer, the topper, said the journey was not easy. “We study with focus and hope, but travelling long distances after school becomes difficult for students like us. If schools are available at the tehsil level and colleges at the district level, many more specially-abled students will continue their education,” she said.
Echoing similar concerns, Sahil Mehraj said accessibility remains a major challenge. “Our teachers motivate us every day, but higher education facilities are limited. Many students drop out because colleges are far and transport is not friendly for persons with disabilities,” he said.
Another student, who also secured a distinction, stressed the need for inclusive planning. “We don’t want sympathy, we want equal opportunities. Separate and well-equipped institutions at local levels will help us become independent and confident citizens,” he said.
Students urged the government to establish special schools for CWNS at the tehsil level and dedicated colleges at the district level, saying such steps would significantly reduce hardship and dropout rates among specially-abled students.
Parents and staff members also appreciated the role of the Department of Social Welfare for supporting the institution, while urging authorities to strengthen infrastructure, ensure trained staff, and build more such schools. (KNO)
