About Disha
A beacon of hope for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Our Journey
Disha School of Special Education & Rehabilitation Centre was established in 1994 by Meerut Children Welfare Trust (MCWT), a “Not For Profit” organization dedicated to serving children with disabilities, in general and intellectually disabled in particular.
Disha began its journey with just two children in a rented place with a vision to transform their lives through education, care and training.
The year 2001 marked a turning point when MCWT acquired land with the support of government grants and private donations. A comprehensive Rehabilitation Centre was envisioned with facilities for early intervention, special education, therapies, life skills training and vocational opportunities. The first phase, including the school building and sheltered workshops, was completed in 2007.
Beyond infrastructure, Disha believes in creating awareness and inclusion. Through seminars, workshops and advocacy programs, we work towards a society where children with intellectual disabilities are understood, accepted and empowered to thrive.
Our journey continues with the same commitment – to equip every child with the tools they need and to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Our Educational Approach
Every Child Learns Differently. Every Child Deserves Individual Attention.
At Disha, we recognize that every child has unique abilities, learning styles, and developmental needs. Our educational approach is designed to help each child build confidence, independence, and the practical skills needed for everyday life.
Today, Disha supports around 200 children with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a multidisciplinary team of experienced special educators, therapists, psychologists, and support staff. Our students include children with Intellectual Disability, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy, ADHD, and Multiple Disabilities.
Children who are educable or trainable are admitted into the school, where each child first undergoes an individual assessment to understand their strengths, challenges, and learning potential.
Personalized Learning in Small Groups
Unlike conventional classrooms, Disha believes that meaningful learning happens through personalized attention. After assessment, children are placed into carefully curated groups of no more than eight students, ensuring that every child receives the guidance, encouragement, and support they need.
Each classroom follows an individualized, well-planned, and progressive learning programme using specially designed teaching aids and multisensory learning techniques that make education engaging, practical, and enjoyable.
Building Skills for Independent Living
Our curriculum goes beyond academics. We focus on developing the knowledge, confidence, and practical life skills that help children become as independent as possible.
The programme includes:
- Language development through reading, writing, and communication
- Functional mathematics with emphasis on money, time, measurement, and everyday calculations
- Understanding the surrounding world, including plants, animals, fruits, vegetables, people, and the community
- Activities of Daily Living (ADL) such as personal hygiene, dressing, eating, and self-care
- Development of socially appropriate behaviour and communication skills
- Encouraging creativity, confidence, and healthy hobbies through art, music, games, and recreational activities
Vocational Training for Greater Independence
As students grow older, they are introduced to vocational and life-skill training that prepares them for greater independence and meaningful participation in society.
Depending on their interests and abilities, students receive practical training in areas such as: Craft making, Music, Block printing, Candle making, Packaging and other vocational activities. These programmes help develop confidence, responsibility, teamwork, and employable skills while nurturing each child’s unique talents.
Parents as Partners
We believe that a child’s progress is strongest when school and home work together. Parents are active partners in every child’s educational journey. They are encouraged to reinforce learning and practice essential skills at home, creating consistency between school and family life.
To support families, Disha regularly organizes counselling sessions, parent guidance programmes, and interactive meetings where parents receive practical strategies, emotional support, and professional guidance to help their children continue learning beyond the classroom. Together, we create an environment where every child has the opportunity to grow with confidence, dignity, and hope.
Beyond Infrastructure, Building Awareness
“At Disha, we believe every child has unique abilities and immense potential. With the right support and opportunities, they can lead fulfilling and dignified lives.”