By Fr Chris Ferreira for BIS Mumbai

Vadodara: Twenty-one STD 12 Psychology students of Don Bosco High School – Makarpura, Vadodara recently undertook an educational field visit to Spandan School for Mentally Challenged – Karelibaug, Vadodara on October 7, 2026 under the supervision of Fr Chris Ferreira sdb. The visit offered the young learners a profound glimpse into special education, therapeutic interventions, and holistic care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. They were accompanied by Fr Chris and Miss Nisha Mamtani. Fr Chris’ intention behind this field visit was to instill both an interest in special education for the budding psychologists and to show them that these less privileged individuals deserve our care and attention.

Dr Salim Buddhvani, the Director cum Principal of the school was gracious enough to give the group his personal time showing how the institute runs. The experiential tour began at the Education & Training Centre. Here, students observed ability-based classrooms, individualized education plans (IEPs), and specialized learning setups including the Autism Centre, Cerebral Palsy Centre, and Toy Library. Next, the visitors were guided through sessions in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and sensory integration.

The guided walkthrough continued to the Vocational Training Centre (VTC) and Pre-Vocational units. Here, adult students are empowered toward financial and social independence by crafting handmade products like candles, files making and festal decorative items; they earn stipends from the sales of these products. The visit concluded at the Faculty of Excellence, where the visiting students saw how co-curricular avenues like music, dance, visual arts, sports, and computer education nurture self-expression and physical confidence.

Observing the life around the place helped the STD 12 students see developmental psychology concepts, rehabilitation protocols, and adaptive behaviour strategies in action. The curious and passionate students had many of their questions answered. Dr Salim shared his own story of what motivated him to enter this field – his experience working with a hearing-impaired person in his childhood.

Don Bosco High School – Vadodara has a vibrant Social Service Group headed by Fr Chris and Ms Nisha which raised funds through a school newspaper drive to purchase winter wear ear caps for all 220 inmates of the school. By the end of the day, the students definitely learned that these specially abled students don’t require pity, but rather dignity, equal opportunity, and an inclusive place in society.