For many children with disabilities, access to education and employment remains a challenge due to physical barriers and social stigma. But at Changangkha Middle Secondary School in Thimphu, these challenges are being turned into opportunities. The school held its first-ever pre-vocational skills showcase today, where students displayed their talents in tailoring, cooking, art and craft, laundry, and mushroom cultivation.
According to the school, the exhibition is expected to equip children with disabilities with practical abilities, preparing them for self-employment, independent living, and a smoother transition into the job market.
“Many people assume that children with disabilities are unable to achieve much. Today’s exhibition is meant to challenge that perception by showcasing the skills our students have learned. More importantly, it helps build their confidence, enabling them to proudly display their talents in the future,” said Phurpa Dorji, Inclusive Education Coordinator, Changangkha Middle Secondary School, Thimphu.
For many parents, today’s exhibition was more than just a display of skills; it was a source of hope and inspiration.
“As parents to children with disabilities, we used to think that our child could not do anything. However, after seeing today’s exhibition, I am very encouraged that our children can also achieve such things. If such exhibitions were not held, we would still think that our children are not capable of anything,” said Tandin Wangmo, Parent, Thimphu.
“I feel very happy knowing that children with disabilities can do such things just like other children, despite their disabilities. I feel happy and more encouraged to support our child,” said Duptho Wangmo, Parent, Thimphu.
Six other inclusive schools in the capital also attended the exhibition, along with parents of children with disabilities.
The school plans to make the showcase an annual event. Currently, there are more than 160 children with disabilities at Changangkha Middle Secondary School.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sonam Pem
