BICHOLIM
The Sanquelim Municipal Council (SMC) has launched a new initiative to provide Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) with work experience by employing them for one year.
The SMC has signed an MoU with Keshav Seva Sadhana Special Children’s School at Vathadeo Sarvan to give PwDs office work, business knowledge and practical training.
As part of this programme, Kritika Naik from Naveli-Bicholim has been selected by the school to work in the municipal office for one year. She will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000-12,000 and will get a chance to learn about different aspects of the municipal office.
The MoU was signed at the SMC office by Chief Officer Shripad Majik and school manager Makarand Kamat. Sanquelim Mayor Siddhi Prabhu, Deputy Mayor Dayanand Boryekar, councillors, teachers and others were present. Chairperson Prabhu said the initiative was meant to give PwDs an opportunity to serve society.
Teacher Manjiri Jog said society must support the efforts of schools working with PwDs. “This step by the SMC is very encouraging, and if others follow, PwDs will gain more confidence and support,” she said.
Kritika, the first to be hired under the initiative, said she was excited to work at the SMC. “I have studied at Keshav Seva Sadhana School for 12 years and learnt many things there. Now, I have the opportunity to work in the SMC office and I will do my best. I am grateful to Mayor Prabhu and my teacher Manjiri Jog for this chance,” she said.
Kritika has also excelled in table tennis and has represented the sport at the international level.
