Beyond Limits, Beyond Sight

Discover the Empowering Journey at Saksham Resource Centre

Saksham Resource Centre is dedicated to empowering students with visual impairments to achieve academic excellence. Our inspiring documentary showcases the incredible journeys of students who have overcome challenges to pass board exams with distinction and secure admission to prestigious colleges.

The film highlights the transformative role of assistive technology, from screen readers to Braille devices, and the unwavering support of Saksham’s dedicated team. These tools and mentorship enable students to unlock their full potential and thrive in their academic pursuits.

We extend our sincere thanks to VT Seva for their support in making this project possible. Together, we’re creating a brighter, more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities. Join us in continuing this mission to empower and uplift those with diverse abilities.

A Sensory Dining Experience: Celebrating World Disability Day with Inclusion and Awareness

This World Disability Day, Saksham hosted a truly unique dining experience at The Arthouse Cafe, Connaught Place, where participants dined blindfolded and in a sensory-filled journey.

The event kicked off with blindfolded guests attempting to guess famous monuments by touch, offering a fun and eye-opening challenge.

From there, guests experienced the thrill of dining without sight, enhancing their understanding of the daily challenges faced by persons with visual impairments.

Highlights of the evening:

📝 Braille menu cards added a whole new dimension to dining, allowing guests to “read” their meals with their fingers.
💡 The event not only raised awareness but also supported Saksham’s mission to empower persons with visual impairments.
💖 Creating change, one bite at a time.

A huge thank you to @thearthousecafeindia for hosting us and providing the delicious food that made this experience even more unforgettable!

Thank you to all who joined us in this journey toward a more inclusive world.

Inclusive Children’s Day Celebration, at Saksham Resource Centre

Inclusive Children’s Day Celebration at Saksham Resource Centre

Children’s Day at the Saksham Resource Centre in Noida was nothing short of magical! Our incredible teachers went above and beyond to create a fun-filled day for the kids, packed with engaging activities that sparked joy and creativity. From lively dancing and exciting games to hands-on clay modeling and other interactive sessions, the children were immersed in a world of happiness and celebration.

These amazing kids, including those with visual impairments and multiple disabilities, showcased their boundless enthusiasm, filling the day with laughter and unforgettable memories. It was a heartwarming reminder of their vibrant spirits, resilience, and the power of inclusion. Here’s to more days like this that celebrate the uniqueness and potential of every child!

UPDATES

Discover Empowering Solutions for Low Vision at Saksham!

Exciting Announcement! Saksham Celebrates its First FIDE-Rated Chess Player!

Specially-Abled Need Opportunity, Not Pity: Rana.

Triumph Against All Odds: Saksham Student s Excel in CBSE 10th and 12th Board Exams!”

Registration for Assistive Technology Training – Hi everyone, We are opening this registration to learn about your training requirements and to assist you in using the devices to your maximum advantage.

"Inclusion through Assistive Technology" Initiative

Saksham, with the support of HCLFoundation, has empowered two students from Rajkiya Inter School and Bhavani Shankar Inter School, Noida, through the “Inclusion through Assistive Technology” initiative.

These students, who are visually impaired, were equipped with configured laptops and received specialized training in their use. This initiative has opened doors to a more enriching and inclusive educational experience.

Together, we’re breaking barriers and making education accessible for all!

“Curious Minds” Workshop & Exhibition in Bangalore!

Saksham Resource Centre, Noida (supported by HCLfoundation), proudly participated in the prestigious “Curious Minds” workshop and exhibition in Bangalore, showcasing the incredible talents of our students.

Day 1 Highlights: Pari, a bright student with visual impairment from Saksham, secured 1st prize in the Science Olympiad organized by Raised Lines Foundation. Her achievement reflects the power of inclusive education and determination.

Day 2 Highlights: Pari captivated the audience by demonstrating how students with visual impairment can efficiently write math and science equations on a laptop 💻. Meanwhile, Savitri presented an engaging model explaining the principles of sound reflection and inertia, leaving attendees inspired by her clarity and confidence.

The workshop also featured impactful model classes led by Vision Empower Trust and Vividha Trust, showcasing innovative teaching strategies for students with visual impairment.

Saksham continues to break barriers, empowering students to excel in science, technology, and beyond.

Training the Trainers, Transforming Lives !!

Saksham successfully organized a 3-day Training of Trainers on Mobility and Navigation from 20th to 22nd November 2024 at IIT Delhi. This unique and impactful workshop united special educators, therapists, and trainers from diverse States and Union Territories across India, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and skill enhancement.

The workshop focused on equipping participants with innovative techniques, tools, and strategies for teaching safe and independent mobility to individuals with visual impairments. From mastering orientation and navigation techniques to understanding the latest assistive technologies and tools like mobility canes, the training sessions covered a wide spectrum of practical skills.

Led by experienced trainers and industry experts, the workshop emphasized hands-on learning through simulated exercises, case studies, and group activities. Participants gained insights into addressing challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments, fostering independence, and creating a more inclusive environment.

The event also served as a platform to connect educators, share best practices, and create a nationwide network committed to accessibility and empowerment.
By empowering trainers with these critical skills, Saksham takes a significant step forward in promoting equal opportunities and inclusion for persons with disabilities.

Together, we are building a future where accessibility is not just a goal but a reality!

Saksham at EMPOWER 2024: Shaping the Future of Assistive Technology

From October 17–19, Saksham proudly participated in EMPOWER 2024, the Annual Assistive Technology Conference, hosted at the prestigious NISH Campus in Thiruvananthapuram. This flagship event served as a global platform, uniting innovators, thought leaders, researchers, user organizations, businesses, and policymakers to tackle the pressing challenges of developing, manufacturing, and delivering transformative assistive technology solutions.

The three-day event was a vibrant celebration of ideas, collaboration, and innovation in assistive technology (AT).

Event Highlights

Keynote Lectures and Panel Discussions: These sessions explored critical themes, such as inclusive design, assistive technology accessibility, and sustainability.

Interactive Product Expo: Cutting-edge assistive technologies were on display, showcasing the potential to revolutionize education, employment, and everyday life for persons with disabilities.

Networking Opportunities: Participants exchanged knowledge, built partnerships, and discussed strategies to advance inclusivity through technology.

One of the most impactful sessions was the Panel Discussion on Assistive Technology for Employment and Career Advancement. Mr. Dipendra Manocha, our Founder Managing Trustee, represented Saksham on this distinguished panel. He shared valuable insights into how assistive technologies can bridge gaps in employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. Mr. Manocha was joined by an esteemed panel, including Dr. Salaj Rana, Dr. K.G. Satheesh Kumar, Mr. Arman Ali, Mr. Vineet Sairawala, and Ms. Leena Singh, each bringing diverse expertise and perspectives to the discussion.

Saksham’s Vision and Impact

At EMPOWER 2024, Saksham reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive society where assistive technology acts as a catalyst for empowerment, enabling individuals with disabilities to live with dignity and independence. By participating in such events, Saksham continues to strengthen its resolve to foster innovation and collaboration in the assistive technology ecosystem.

As we look ahead, we aim to harness the momentum and ideas sparked at EMPOWER 2024 to further advance our mission of accessibility and inclusion for all. Together, let’s shape a world where technology transforms lives and breaks barriers.

Empowering Parents, Supporting Students

At Saksham, we believe that parents play a pivotal role in shaping the future of children with disabilities. With the invaluable support of the @HCLFoundation, we recently organized a transformative Parent Counseling Session in Dankaur block, Gautam Buddh Nagar, aimed at empowering parents and equipping them with tools to support their children effectively.

This impactful session brought together around 50 parents of students with diverse disabilities, all of whom are currently studying in mainstream schools. The session served as a platform to share experiences, provide guidance, and foster a deeper understanding of the unique needs and opportunities for children with disabilities.

One of the highlights of the session was an inspiring talk by a visually challenged team member from Saksham. Their personal experiences and professional insights shed light on the numerous solutions, resources, and support services available to enhance the learning journey of students with blindness. Their story not only motivated parents but also demonstrated how challenges can be overcome with the right support, determination, and community collaboration.

Through such initiatives, Saksham is committed to creating a more inclusive and accepting society, where every child, regardless of their abilities, has the chance to thrive. Together with organizations like @HCLFoundation and the unwavering support of parents, we are building a future filled with opportunities and hope.

Stay tuned for more updates on how we’re fostering inclusivity and empowering communities!

Right to Write: - 3rd National Computer Speed & Accuracy Competition

Saksham, in collaboration with HCL Foundation, proudly hosted the Right to Write: 3rd National Computer Speed & Accuracy Competition at the HCL campus in Sector 126, Noida. The event saw participation from over 45 talented students with visual impairments from various regions across India, providing them with a unique platform to showcase their computer proficiency, typing speed, and accuracy—essential skills in today’s technology-driven world.

The event aimed not only to inspire and empower participants but also to highlight the importance of digital literacy for individuals with visual impairments. Each participant was given the opportunity to sharpen their skills through multiple rounds of the competition, designed to assess speed and accuracy in both English and Hindi typing. This dual-language structure ensured inclusivity, catering to the diverse linguistic backgrounds of the participants and making the competition accessible to all.

The competition was structured with multiple rounds, including time-based challenges and accuracy-focused tasks, testing not only the speed of typing but also the quality and precision of their work. The participants’ hard work and dedication were evident as they embraced the challenges and displayed remarkable skill in navigating complex typing scenarios, further encouraging the use of assistive technology in their education and future careers.
Recognition and Rewards: The winners of the competition were honored in a special awards ceremony, where they received certificates, mobile phones, and innovative devices like Amazon Alexa, symbolizing the power of technology in enabling independent living for individuals with disabilities. The prizes were designed to empower the students to continue building their digital skills and help them navigate an increasingly tech-focused world.

Saksham extends its deepest gratitude to HCL Foundation for their unwavering support, and to the volunteers from HCL who generously contributed their time and effort to make this event a success.

Awareness & Sensitization Workshop on - Assistive Technology

Empowering Minds & Breaking Barriers in Ladakh

In a significant effort to promote accessibility and inclusivity, Saksham, with the support of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the People’s Action Group of Inclusion and Rights (PAGIR), organized an impactful awareness and sensitization workshop on assistive technology for individuals with visual impairments. Held in Leh, Ladakh, on October 3rd and 4th, 2024, this event brought together a diverse audience of students, educators, community members, and disability advocates. The workshop aimed to demonstrate how assistive technologies can revolutionize the lives of people with visual impairments, fostering independence and promoting a culture of inclusion in Ladakh.

Workshop Highlights:

– Assistive Technology Training: Participants were actively engaged in hands-on demonstrations and interactive sessions that showcased the power of assistive tools such as screen readers, magnification software, and portable devices that aid navigation. These tools enable individuals with visual impairments to lead independent lives by enhancing their ability to access information and perform daily tasks.

– Quiz Competition: An engaging quiz competition was organized to test and expand participants’ knowledge of assistive technologies. The quiz not only provided a platform for learning but also created a fun and competitive atmosphere where attendees could explore how these technologies can be integrated into education, workspaces, and daily living.

– Creative Competitions: To further promote the message of inclusion, students participated in slogan writing and poster-making competitions. The creative expressions depicted strong advocacy for disability rights, accessibility, and societal acceptance, reflecting the participants’ deep understanding of the issues and solutions at hand.

Creating a Lasting Impact

This two-day workshop was more than just an educational event—it was a step toward fostering a more inclusive community in Ladakh. With the guidance of experts, attendees gained valuable insights into the practical use of assistive technology, which can have a profound impact on the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. By empowering them with the necessary skills and tools, Saksham hopes to see these technologies adopted more widely across the region.

The involvement of ICMR and PAGIR added significant weight to the initiative, underscoring the importance of accessibility and inclusion at a national level. Moving forward, Saksham aims to build on this momentum by continuing to support programs that promote technology-driven solutions to the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

Purple Fest 2024 - Let's Celebrate Diversity Together

Join us for an extraordinary celebration from January 8 to 13, 2024, right in the heart of Panaji, Goa! This year, we’re elevating the festivities with an array of thrilling activities and experiences.

Experience the enchantment of Audio Described Movies and participate in our Inclusive Car Rally tailored for visually impaired individuals—there’s something for everyone.

Step into our Experience Zone, where we showcase a diverse range of Assistive Technology solutions, offering you hands-on access to cutting-edge innovations.

Participate in specially curated inclusive games for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), and don’t miss the highly anticipated Saksham EmbeSion Setup.

Immerse yourself in the magic as we scatter 20 Historical Monuments replicas across Purple Fest. It’s a unique opportunity for visually impaired individuals to touch and experience the grandeur of these iconic structures.

Let’s celebrate diversity together with Saksham!

EmpowerEd: Inclusive Learning with HCL Foundation

Workshop on Inclusive Education (September 29, 2023): Join us for an enlightening Workshop on Inclusive Education hosted by HCL Foundation at their campus on September 29, 2023. This workshop is dedicated to empowering schools and stakeholders to better support students with disabilities.

Highlights of the event include an awareness assessment and an insightful session by Dr. Piyush Chanana from IIT Delhi. Witness visually impaired students showcasing independent learning skills using screen readers. Gain valuable insights from special educator Ms. Priya as she shares her experiences and effective strategies.

In collaboration with the HCL Foundation and the Department of Basic Education – UP, this event supports educational assistance for six students in Noida government schools. We are providing smartphones with Bluetooth keyboards and tactile mathematics kits to enhance their learning experience.

Device Distribution at Noida Govt. School (November 20, 2023):
Aligned with the ‘Inclusion through Assistive Technology’ initiative supported by HCL Foundation, we are conducting a device distribution event at a Noida government school on November 20, 2023. This initiative aims to empower visually impaired children by distributing laptops and smartphones with Bluetooth keyboards.

Right to Write – 2nd National Computer Speed & Accuracy Competition (November 30, 2023):
Saksham is proud to organize the 2nd National Computer Speed & Accuracy Competition on November 30, 2023, at HCL Foundation in Noida. This event features 50 talented participants from diverse schools showcasing their computer skills.

Workshop at Composite School, Khairpur Village, Bisrakh Block, Noida:
We are conducting a workshop at Composite School in Khairpur Village, Bisrakh Block, Noida, contributing to our commitment to empowering visually impaired students through a blend of education and technology. Join us in making a positive impact on their learning journey.

Empowering Education - Through Assistive Technology

District-level Training Program in Collaboration with Assistech Lab, IIT Delhi

Saksham is thrilled to share the success of a recent district-level training program conducted at the Sabal Resource Centre in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. This collaborative initiative, orchestrated in partnership with Assistech Lab, IIT Delhi, aimed to empower citizens associated with Saksham Sabal.

Key Highlights:

Collaborative Effort: The training program was a result of a collaborative effort between Saksham and Assistech Lab, IIT Delhi, demonstrating the power of partnerships in creating positive change.
District-level Impact: Focused on the Sabal Resource Centre in Jamshedpur, the program sought to make a meaningful impact at the district level, reaching individuals within the Saksham Sabal community.
Generous Support: Saksham extends heartfelt gratitude to TataSteelFoundation for their generous support, which played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of this initiative.

This endeavor aligns with Saksham’s commitment to leveraging assistive technology to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. The training program reflects our dedication to providing valuable resources and knowledge that empower Saksham Sabal citizens in their journey toward independence and inclusivity.

Saksham is immensely grateful for the support of TataSteelFoundation, whose commitment to social impact has made a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. We look forward to continued collaboration and the ongoing pursuit of initiatives that create positive change and empower individuals with disabilities.

Saksham Sports Team Shines in - North Zone Chess Championship

Saksham is elated to share some phenomenal news from the Saksham Pehel Sports Team!

A trio of exceptionally talented chess players from the Pehel Chess Team recently showcased their prowess in the North Zone Chess Championship, held from September 30th to October 2nd, 2023.

Ashwin Rajesh: Junior North Zone Chess Champion 2023!

Representing Pehel, Ashwin Rajesh emerged as the Junior North Zone Chess Champion 2023! With an impressive score of 5.5 points out of 7, he secured the 5th position in the championship. Ashwin has now qualified for the Junior National Chess Championship 2023 and Senior National Chess Championship 2023 later this year.

Ajit Kumar: Secures a Spot in Junior National Chess Championship 2023!
Another talented member of Pehel, Ajit Kumar, earned 5 points out of 7, achieving the 13th position in the championship. He has also secured a spot in the upcoming Junior National Chess Championship 2023.

Anupama Rathore: Remarkable Spirit in Girls’ Category!

Anupama Rathore, representing Pehel, displayed tremendous spirit by securing 3rd place in the girls’ category with 1.5 points out of 7.

Coach Somendra Sir: The New North Zone Chess Champion!

In the most exciting news, our incredible coach, Somendra Sir, emerged as the new North Zone Chess Champion!

Saksham Pehel is leaving an indelible mark in the para-sports world, and we couldn’t be prouder of the entire team!

Empowering Dreams and Innovation - Saksham Tek Fiesta Jammu 2023

Saksham, in collaboration with J&K Handicapped Society and the National Federation for the Blind, hosted an empowering event in Jammu on September 23rd and 24th, 2023, with the primary aim of empowering visually challenged students.

Highlights:
Exciting “Right to Write” and Tek Quiz competitions with fantastic prizes.
Damini Bandral won the “Right to Write” competition, receiving a specially configured laptop.
Validation workshop on tactile books for visually impaired students.
Arush Singh claimed the Tek Quiz First Prize and received a specially configured laptop.
Training on assistive technologies for the visually impaired.
Lucky draw prizes for participants.
A unique opportunity for visually impaired individuals to explore and select tailored devices.

Gratitude: We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated at the Louis Braille Memorial Residential School for Sightless Girls in Jammu. Together, we made the Saksham Tek Fiesta an unforgettable experience. 🙌

Saksham Sports - Chess Triumph!!

Welcome to Saksham’s exciting world of chess, where our players are making waves and achieving remarkable success. Here’s the latest update from the recent Chess Tournament organized by DCFB under AICFB:

Delhi State Champion Crowned!
Ashwin Rajesh, an exceptional 11th-grade student, etched his name in history by defeating the two-time state champion, Arun Duggal. With a flawless score of 7 out of 7, Ashwin is now the proud holder of the title – the new Delhi State Champion!

North Zone Chess Championship Qualifiers!
But that’s not all! Joining the victory parade are Ajit Kumar, Anupama Rathore, and Pari Kumari. They have all qualified for the North Zone Chess Championship. These talented players from Saksham Pehel Sports Unit are gearing up to compete in the championship later this year.

A Moment of Pride
This achievement is a moment of immense pride for Saksham and our dedicated players. We extend our sincere thanks to all of you for your unwavering support and encouragement, enabling us to participate in such prestigious events.

Let’s Celebrate Together!
Now, it’s time to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable players! Share the news of their outstanding performance with your circle and help us spread the word. They truly deserve the respect and recognition for their hard work and dedication. Your support makes a difference, so let’s make them feel appreciated!

Saksham's Accessible Film

The objective of Saksham Accessible Film Fiesta: is to bring the magic of cinema to absolutely everyone, irrespective of physical abilities. We achieve this by offering audio-described movies that break down barriers and create unforgettable cinematic experiences for all. This unique event provides a platform for individuals, both with and without disabilities, to share in the joy of cinema, fostering unity, empathy, and understanding.

Promoting Cultural Accessibility: Our commitment to promoting cultural accessibility means making cultural events, such as film screenings, open and accessible to a wide and diverse audience, including those with disabilities. This involves eliminating physical, social, and communication barriers that may hinder the participation of individuals with disabilities in cultural activities.

Audio-Described Movies: The audio description feature involves providing an additional audio track that narrates the visual aspects of a movie or TV show, thereby assisting individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

This narration paints a vivid picture of character expressions, actions, settings, and other critical visual details that may not be apparent from dialogue or sound effects. With this inclusion, individuals with visual impairments can fully engage with a movie, understanding the storyline as sighted viewers do.

The event was held across four different Delhi University colleges in the Delhi/NCR region and in two special schools in Muzaffarpur and in the Jammu region, bringing the magic of cinema to diverse audiences.

Commencement of "AGRAGAAMI" project with Delhi Govt. Schools

We are delighted to share with you the formalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that took place on July 31, 2023. This MoU was signed by Mr. Dipendra Manocha, the Founder Managing Trustee of Saksham, and Mr. Himanshu Gupta, who holds the esteemed position of Directorate of Education and is an IAS officer within the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD).

This momentous agreement signifies the inception of the ‘Agragaami’ project, a collaborative initiative that will be implemented within the framework of Delhi Government Schools. The core objective of this project is to empower students who are visually impaired.

‘Agragaami’ represents a significant step forward in enhancing the educational opportunities and support systems available to visually impaired students within the region. It underlines a commitment to inclusivity and the creation of an environment where every student has the resources and tools necessary to achieve their full potential. This project is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these students, opening up new horizons and opportunities for their educational journey.

Braille Stormers: Car Rally Event Lucknow

Saksham Organizes Groundbreaking Car Rally for Visually Impaired in Lucknow to Promote Social Media Accessibility

On Sunday, May 28th, Saksham, in collaboration with RSVI and Rotary Club Greater Lucknow, organized a unique car rally for visually impaired individuals in the heart of Lucknow, at Oudh Gymkhana Club, Qaisar Bagh. This first-of-its-kind event was held as part of Saksham’s META-supported campaign, “Leveraging Social Media AccessAbility for All,” aimed at raising awareness about making social media content accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities.

The rally paired visually impaired participants with sighted drivers, who navigated the course while also promoting the important message of accessibility. The sighted participants were encouraged to create slogans advocating for social media accessibility, with winners being recognized and felicitated for their creativity and impact.

In addition to the advocacy slogans, the event also featured a competition for the best-decorated car. Vehicles adorned with themes of disability inclusion and accessibility were celebrated, with the most innovative designs receiving special recognition.

This car rally was not just a fun, engaging event but a powerful symbol of how visually impaired individuals, when provided with barrier-free and inclusive environments, can thrive just like anyone else. It also highlighted the importance of interdependence and collaboration, demonstrating that mutual support can create meaningful experiences for all involved.

By organizing this event, Saksham continues its mission to promote inclusion and advocate for accessibility in all areas of life, including the rapidly growing digital and social media spaces.

Our Biggest Campaign Ever
Leveraging Social Media AccessAbility for All

With the support of Meta, Saksham has launched its largest campaign to date, titled “Leveraging Social Media AccessAbility For All.”

The campaign aims to promote the inclusion of all individuals’ content and accessibility requirements on various Social Media platforms. This initiative specifically addresses the needs of India’s 26.8 million people with disabilities and 138 million older individuals.

We invite you to join us in raising awareness and acquiring knowledge about simple measures to ensure that our everyday communication on Social Media platforms is accessible to everyone.

The official launch of this campaign took place on December 3rd, 2022, coinciding with the International Day for Persons with Disability.

Fever 104 Interview episode with Mr. Dipendra Manocha (Founder Managing Trustee, Saksham) on 3rd December, World Disability Day, on the launch of the Project
‘Leveraging Social Media Access Ability for all’.

Saksham and Vikasa Tarangini -
Collaborate for Digital Empowerment of Visually Impaired Students on International Yoga Day 2022

On June 21, 2022, on the occasion of International Yoga Day, Saksham and Vikasa Tarangini joined hands to work towards the ‘Digital Empowerment’ of students with blindness and low vision. Under this initiative, specially configured laptops were provided at subsidized cost, along with books and training to make students self-reliant in their reading & writing, as well as to prepare and empower them for quality education and employment. Pujya Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, Founder Vikasa Tarangini, VTS World, and Netra Vidhyalaya, graced the occasion as chief guest, and celebrated the beginning of this phenomenal initiative with us.

WHAT WE DO

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TESTIMONIALS

" I have got a laptop from Saksham at a subsidized cost. It has helped me a lot to continue with my studies. "

Anju

Student

" Saksham is a wonderful organization with a lot of powerful energy. You can never be disconnected from it. "

Shri Parakash Pandey

Teacher

" My life has completely changed since the day I have come in contact with Saksham. "

Vinod Singh Raj Purohit