DIL News 2009 - Summer

Making a Difference

Majid, a physically handicapped and socially withdrawn child, was enrolled at DIL - Agahi Mazullah School, Mansehra, by his parents after an unsuccessful search for a special education school.

During his early days at school Majid remained very detached, sitting alone without uttering a single word in class. He wouldn’t participate in co-curricular activities, do his homework, or respond to his teacher’s questions.

The class teacher, Miss Nadia took Majid’s case on as a challenge. After discussing the problem with her mentor they both agreed that they would need the help of Majid’s classmates to solve the problem. They started by talking with other students and asking them to befriend Majid and include him in their activities. Miss Nadia would find opportunities to build Majid’s confidence by bringing him in front of the class to do small and easy activities, while his classmates encouraged him by clapping and praising his efforts.

After about two to three months Miss Nadia noticed that Majid had begun to participate in class. The day finally came when Majid refused to go home; he wanted to live at the school. “That was one of the happiest days of my life,” says Miss Nadia, “I’m proud of being a DIL School teacher.”

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