Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], December 5 (HBTV): Chhattisgarh’s first dedicated institute for persons with disabilities, the Divyang Mahavidyalaya Raipur, is fostering artistic and vocational skills among differently-abled students. Located in Mana, Raipur, the college offers specialised undergraduate courses designed to enhance their creative potential.
The institute, established under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s initiative, provides Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programmes. According to faculty members, the BPA course focuses on skills such as singing and playing the tabla, ideal for visually impaired students, while the BFA course emphasises drawing, catering to students with speech and hearing impairments.
Kamlesh Kurre, a college teacher, shared the inspiring journey of student Lovely Khutiyar, who has been passionate about drawing since childhood. Through sign language, she expressed her dream of pursuing a master’s degree in fine arts and helping other students with disabilities find their artistic voices.
‘What I see, I transfer onto the canvas using a pencil,’ Lovely explained through Kurre, reflecting her deep connection with art.
Kurre acknowledged the challenges of teaching Divyang students, particularly due to varying sign languages used at home and in schools. However, the institute is actively addressing these issues while expanding its reach.
Shikha Verma, the college principal, noted that the institute, established in 2016, operates under the Social Welfare Department and is affiliated with Indira Gandhi National Tribal University. It offers free hostel facilities and state and national-level scholarships, attracting students from various districts.
‘The institute hosts exhibitions, and students participate in national and international events, winning prestigious awards, including state and national-level honours,’ Verma said.
She added that the courses have a strong vocational focus. Some students have already set up stalls, earning up to INR 20,000 in a short period through their art sales.
(ANI)