Govt’s School Art Festival Sets Stage for Inclusivity

Ashok D M of Triplicane has always encouraged his six-year-old visually challenged son to pursue his passion for sketching, a hobby he developed in school. When Ashok learned about Kalai Thiruvizha, an arts and culture competition for govt school students, he saw an opportunity for his son to showcase his talents beyond the classroom. Ashok is among a growing number of parents calling for the school education department to include children from special schools in the annual festival.Kalai Thiruvizha, held for the past three years, invites students from Class I to Class VI in govt schools to participate in debates, quizzes, sports, dance, music, and art. This year, the festival expanded to include govt-aided schools and primary school students, opening up opportunities for more children to explore their talents. The department recently extended the deadline for uploading the details of Kalai Thiruvizha winners to Sept 27. While this allows more time for schools to organise the events, parents such as Ashok believe the festival's reach could be even wider."The department should ensure schools push children with special needs to participate. It would be helpful if these competitions are held separately for these students so they can explore their abilities without the pressure of competing alongside their mainstream peers," says Meenakshi Narayan, a parent from Vadapalani. Last year, a Class XI student from the govt higher secondary school at Ayyampalayam in Trichy won the first prize in digital art at the state-level competition. "However, children in schools under the department of welfare of differently abled persons remain largely excluded," says Meenakshi.Chennai-based psychologist Priya R says engaging in activities such as dance, music, and art enhances cognitive development and fine motor skills. "For children with special needs, these activities can be therapeutic and support overall development. Participating in such events helps them prepare for challenges beyond the school setting," she says. "Cultural competitions create an inclusive environment where children participate with their peers, breaking down barriers and promoting a sense of belonging," says K Sreenivasan, headmaster of A J S Nidhi Govt Higher Secondary School in Alandur, who conducted Kalai Thiruvizha on Sept 5.The state govt has invested `3 crore in Kalai Thiruvizha, funding foreign educational tours for the winners. "Expanding this to include more students will ensure they benefit from this exposure," he says.Email your feedback tosouthpole.toi@timesofindia.com