PANAJI
The third day of the International Purple Fest 2025 brought together educators, government officials, industry leaders and participants for powerful discussions on inclusion and empowerment. The sessions underlined how collaboration between government, educational institutions and industries can expand opportunities, remove barriers, and create stronger pathways for inclusion.
The day began with a career workshop, “Beyond Barriers: Expanding Horizons for Persons with Disabilities,” organised by Radio Udaan in collaboration with the MAD Foundation. The session was inaugurated by Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who stressed the need to change mindsets along with improving accessibility. “These barriers are not just physical, but also in our attitudes and social systems,” he said. “We must work together to create an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.”
Minal Singhvi, Co-founder of Radio Udaan, shared her experience of launching India’s first disability community radio station run entirely by visually impaired individuals. “Events like the Purple Fest amplify our voices and open new career opportunities,” she said. The workshop included sessions on careers in law, insurance and other fields, helping participants explore concrete career options.
Another key event, Purple Power, focused on inclusive education and the role of schools in supporting students with disabilities. Speakers included Mahera Kantawalla (Sethu), Purva Mandlik (Mushtifund High School), Deepali Manerikar (GVM Almeida High School) and Maria Cyena Pegado (Fairyland High School). The session was graced by Chief Guest Siddharth Kunkolienkar, Chairman of the Sanjay Centre for Special Education, who noted, “Schools are where inclusive communities begin. Children learn respect and empathy here.”
A workshop on Supported Employment for Persons with Mental Disorders was led by Dr Aarti Jagannathan from NIMHANS, Bengaluru. Over 30 HR representatives attended to learn how Goa could adopt NIMHANS’ model for psychosocial rehabilitation and employment. “Employment is vital to recovery and dignity,” Dr Jagannathan said. Representatives from GCCI, UNICHEM Laboratories, Alcon Group and other industries took part, marking a strong step toward inclusive employment in Goa.
The International Purple Fest 2025 will conclude tomorrow with a grand closing ceremony featuring dignitaries including Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister Shripad Naik and Minister Subhash Phal Dessai.
The closing event will include the felicitation of 21 Purple Ambassadors, the launch of the Purple Newsletter, cultural performances by students from special schools, and vibrant acts.
by Disability Alliance, Victory Arts Foundation, Basuri & Bliss, Miracle on Wheels, 7 Notes, Manasi Ghosh and the Purple Rain concert ” bringing the festival to a spirited finale.
