Kerala to get 140 autism parks in three years: Education minister C Raveendranath

KOZHIKODE: “The state government will construct autism parks for the differently-abled children in all the 140 assembly constituencies in the state in the next three years,” said Prof C Raveedranath, education minister. The parks will have professionals appointed to train such children for their overall development. The minister was talking to a gathering after inaugurating the cultural festival of differently-abled children ‘Sargam’ on Friday at Kandamkulam Jubilee Hall.

In addition to these parks, the government will appoint more professionals in the existing 36 autism centers across the state. “It is high time these children got expert care and help for their mental and physical well being. Very soon talent clubs will be launched in each school in the state, that will serve as a platform for students, parents and teachers to discuss innovative thoughts which can be converted to fruitful concepts,” the minister further said.

The talent club will play a key role in helping students bring out their hidden abilities and help provide them a chance to showcase those talents in whatever sector they are interested in. The cultural fest was organsied by Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan in association with Kerala Lalithakala Akademi, and Sangeetha - Nataka Akademi. Students will compete with each other in events like painting – drawing, dance, music and various other events during the three-day fest. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by M.K. Muneer MLA and Kozhikode Corporation Education standing committee chairman M Radhakrishnan Master.