Startling statistics reveal that globally, at least 50% of children with disabilities are excluded from education, particularly in low and middle-income countries. These youngsters face numerous barriers, from a lack of wheelchairs to grappling with ill-fitted ones that cause discomfort on their challenging journeys.
This heartening revelation has fueled the urgency to address mobility hindrances in the educational journey of girls with disabilities who are part of the #Enlight project in Hyderabad. In this regard, on December 7, 2023, a wheelchair assessment camp was organized at Saroor Nagar, Hyderabad, all thanks to the collaborative efforts of Aide et Action (AEA) and Mobility India Hyderabad (MIH).
Under the aegis of Dr. Sama Raju Reddy, MPT (MSK & Sports), who conducted a thorough assessment of the needs of 16 girls with disabilities, we are gearing up to provide customized wheelchairs. This initiative aims to empower these girls to embark on their educational journey, triumphing over challenges, aspiring, learning, and thriving. It was interesting to note that the assessment camp emphasized a personalized approach—acknowledging that not everyone needs wheelchairs; some require physiotherapy, attention, and more to enhance their condition.