Special school for visually impaired set up in Khammam under 99-day action plan
KHAMMAM: A special school for visually impaired students has been established in Khammam district as part of the Telangana government’s “Praja Palana – Pragati Pranalika (99-Day Action Plan)”.
The initiative followed public representations received through grievance platforms, including Prajavani. District collector Anudeep Durishetty held a review meeting with additional collector (local bodies) Dr P Srija and Zilla Parishad chief executive officer Deeksha Raina before finalising the plan.
The Government Primary School at Nizampet, located in Khammam town, has been upgraded into a dedicated institution for visually impaired children.
Focus on inclusive education and equal opportunity
The administration said the objective was to ensure that “visually impaired students should have equal opportunities in society, and disability should not be a barrier to their education”.
Additional classrooms have been renovated and equipped with modern infrastructure. The school will provide Braille-based education using Annie Braille materials, drawing from practices followed at Devnar School for the Blind.
Officials conducted household surveys under the supervision of CMO Bajozu Praveen Kumar to identify visually impaired students. Special teachers Rakesh and Arun have been deputed to the school.
Braille devices, sensory rooms and smart learning facilities added
The school has been equipped with Braille books, literacy devices, audio-assisted lessons and a smart technology laboratory.
Facilities include a sensory room and sensory garden designed to enhance touch, sound, smell and balance awareness. The campus also features barrier-free infrastructure, child-safe electrical systems, special furniture, a music room and a skill development centre.
Teaching materials include Braille slates, stylus, Taylor’s frame, abacus, geometry kits, tactile alphabet cards and science drawing kits. Educational play tools such as chess, ludo, dominoes and sound-emitting cricket balls have also been provided.
Orientation and mobility aids such as long canes and folding canes will support independent movement. Vision charts are part of a functional visual assessment kit.
Project cost ₹18.50 lakh, monitored by district officials
The project was completed at a cost of ₹18.50 lakh. Officials said the work was monitored by ZP CEO Deeksha Raina to ensure safety and accessibility.
District collector Anudeep Durishetty said, “Visually impaired students must also receive equal opportunities in society. This special school provides them a platform to showcase their talent.”
The administration described the school as a step towards inclusive education and a support system for families seeking specialised learning facilities.
