Workshop with IICP on Right to Communication

The Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy (IICP) conducted a two-day workshop in collaboration with the Department of Education, Loreto College, Kolkata on September 25 and 26, 2024. The theme of the workshop was “Right to Communication” and the aim was to spread awareness about Cerebral Palsy and inclusion.

Day 1 began with Mr. Sudipendu Dutta, Coordinator of Ankur Advocacy Group, shedding light on conventional societal attitudes towards people with Cerebral Palsy. This was followed by an interactive session conducted by Ms. Lia Debnath, coordinator of the Adult Day Care Centre of IICP. Ms. Debnath shared the methods and techniques of alternative and augmentative communication for individuals with Cerebral Palsy through hands-on training of the students of the college. Students interacted with Ms. Shraddha Khator, Ms. Barsha Bhattacharya, and Mr. Md. Aryan, who suffer from Cerebral Palsy and who have tried to overcome challenges through training and their intrinsic motivation. The students read out a poem written by Ms. Shraddha Khator and watched an animation video produced by Mr. Md. Aryan. They also learned how to pace themselves when communicating with people with Cerebral Palsy using assistive devices.

On Day 2, Mrs. Mausumi Halder, Head of the Social Service Department, Mrs. Saswati Acharya Mahanti, Coordinator of Ankur Advocacy Group, and Mr. Ashok Kumar, Head of the Physiotherapy Division of IICP shared several experiences of communication with people with Cerebral Palsy. Insights into the challenges faced by individuals with cerebral palsy and ways to overcome them were provided. The workshop also included a poster-making activity on the theme by students of all semesters. Real-life situations related to “Right to Communication” were presented by the resource persons, and the students of the college explored these situations through role play.

The workshop ended with students presenting their feedback. All participants gained knowledge about Cerebral Palsy and alternative and augmentative communication techniques, fostering sensitivity to the needs of the challenged and underscoring the importance of inclusion. The workshop was an enriching and valuable learning experience for all.