Study Hall DOSTI Marks 20 Years of Empowering Children with Special Needs
The programme was graced by Prof. Himanshu Shekhar Jha, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Uttar Pradesh, as the Chief Guest. Parents, teachers, and representatives from various units of the Study Hall Educational Foundation were also present in large numbers.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Jha said,True inclusion begins with acceptance and dignity. When we believe in the potential of every child and create spaces that respect their individuality, learning becomes possible for all. DOSTI demonstrates how inclusive education, when implemented with commitment, enables children with special needs to grow with confidence and pride.”
Study Hall DOSTI is an integrated programme of the Study Hall Educational Foundation, based at the Study Hall Gomti Nagar campus. It provides inclusive education, therapy, and life-skills training for children with disabilities. What began as an informal initiative has, over two decades, evolved into a structured, school-based model that now serves over 170 students.
Reflecting on this journey, Dr Urvashi Sahni, Founder and CEO of Study Hall Educational Foundation, said,DOSTI did not begin as a formal programme; it grew out of care. Long before it was institutionalised, doctors began referring children with special needs to Study Hall because they trusted that this was a place where children would be understood, valued, and never turned away. Over twenty years, that belief shaped DOSTI into an integrated programme rooted in compassion, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to every child’s potential.”
Ms Tarannum Khan, Headmistress of DOSTI, highlighted the institution’s guiding philosophy, stating,At DOSTI, we believe in the Triple A approach—Acceptance, Awareness, and Acknowledgement. Acceptance means believing in every child’s potential; awareness means respecting each child’s uniqueness; and acknowledgement means recognising their effort and growth. This belief was recently affirmed when our student Astha Rai was honoured with the Rajya Stareeya Prerana Stotra. Our students have also represented Uttar Pradesh and India at the Special Olympics, winning accolades for the state. These achievements show what is possible when children with special needs, especially girls, are supported with care, opportunity, and belief.”
The Field Day featured vibrant and inclusive performances, including a Lezim dance, skating demonstrations, and a student band. A special performance by mothers dancing alongside their children received widespread appreciation for its emotional depth and powerful message of shared resilience and bonding.The programme concluded with a Christmas Grand Finale, marking the occasion with celebration, joy, and togetherness. Parents and family members attended in large numbers, applauding the students’ progress and achievements and celebrating the spirit of inclusion that defines Study Hall DOSTI.