21 differently-abled AP students scale Everest base camp

Vijayawada: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, 21 differently-abled students from govt schools in Andhra Pradesh successfully completed a high-altitude trek to the Everest Base Camp in Nepal, marking a significant milestone in inclusive adventure programmes.The expedition, conducted under the aegis of Samagra Shiksha, was flagged off by education and IT minister Nara Lokesh. The group, comprising 13 boys and 8 girls studying from Class 9 to Intermediate, reached Kathmandu on April 15 and undertook a 16-day camp to the Everest Base Camp, located at an altitude of 5,364 metres.Officials stated that this was the first instance globally where a govt-supported team of children with special needs undertook such a challenging Himalayan trek. The students underwent extensive training prior to the expedition, including 45 days at the Gandikota Adventure Academy and an additional 15 days in sub-zero conditions in Ladakh to build endurance and climbing skills.The team was guided by trained mountaineers, including experts from adventure sports academies, along with officials from the education and sports departments. The programme was implemented under the supervision of Samagra Shiksha authorities, who coordinated logistics, safety and training.Many of the participating students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Despite initial social scepticism and discouragement, they completed the trek successfully, reaching the base camp and returning safely.Education department officials said the initiative was aimed at promoting confidence, physical fitness.