Visit to Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP)
On November 21, 2024, students of the Department of Education and Semester-I students of the Department of B.Ed. at Loreto College, Kolkata visited the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP), Taratala in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Accompanied by their teachers and the Teacher-in-Charge, Sr. Dr. A. Nirmala, the students received a warm and gracious reception from the IICP authorities, which set the tone for an enriching and insightful experience.
The Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP) is a registered charitable institution that has been working for children and adults with neuro-motor and developmental disabilities since its establishment in 1974. The organisation offers vital support to individuals suffering from Cerebral Palsy, a condition affecting people from various socio-economic backgrounds. IICP is renowned for its commitment to providing comprehensive care and treatment for its patients, and the students were fortunate to witness its outstanding work first-hand.
The students had the opportunity to observe the methods employed by IICP to tend to its patients. They were introduced to the specialised furniture and mats used in treatment, designed specifically to cater to the needs of individuals with cerebral palsy. They interacted with medical professionals, including neurologists, paediatricians, and physiologists, who provide treatment either for no cost or at minimal charges, ensuring accessibility for all. They also learned about the various therapies, including Hydrotherapy and Physiotherapy, offered to help patients of all ages cope with their disabilities.
The institute features multisensory rooms that aid in audio and visual development, fostering holistic growth in patients. One of the most impressive aspects of IICP’s approach is the ROSHNI Department, which focuses on enhancing the communication skills of patients using specialised tools such as Spell boards and Awaz Software. This department has proven to be highly effective in helping patients gain confidence in their ability to communicate.
In addition to medical care, IICP provides vocational training to its students, enabling them to acquire skills that enhance their independence and self-sufficiency. Students are trained in various crafts, including block printing, paper bag making, and jewellery crafting, through a teaching method that incorporates fun and play. Once the students complete their vocational training, they are sent to a special school, where they can complete their Class X and Class XII education through boards such as the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
The visit concluded with the screening of a documentary created by one of the IICP members who, despite suffering from Cerebral Palsy, has contributed significantly to the organisation. The documentary highlighted the dedicated care imparted at IICP, offering a powerful insight into the challenges faced by those with disabilities and the immense support they receive from the institute.
Spending the day at IICP was an eye-opening experience for the students. It instilled in them a deeper sense of gratitude for their own circumstances and a renewed commitment to using their skills for the betterment of society. The visit was not only educational but also profoundly inspiring, as it showcased the power of compassion, innovation, and dedication in improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.
