Deaf Child/Youth Education

Samarthya runs two programs for the hearing-impaired in the community. This sector is separated into two programs: the Deaf Child Program (DCP) focuses on teaching the communication skills to children from birth to 14 years old to maximize their learning during these years. The Deaf Youth Program (DYP) aims to support young adults aged 15-25 to gain more independence and transition into adult life. Our staff focuses on therapeutic, communicational, educational, and socio-economical needs of both programs.  

At the DCP therapeutic level, the focus will be on early identification and intervention as well as individualized home-based training to empower parents to nurture the development of their child. We advocate for community support for these groups, and provide specialized education to ICDS (pre-school) workers and school teachers. Our Staff works hard to support clients in accessing economic benefits and social security schemes. Additionally, ongoing efforts are made by clients and staff to influence government groups for positive policy change.

The DYP program focuses largely on issues that impact adolescents with hearing impairment. There are several mainstream skill development groups, which train these young adults in areas like tailoring and handicrafts, computer work, and horticulture work. Samarthya staff meets with various educational groups to ensure appropriate integration into higher mainstream educational systems. Also Samarthya holds several multiple-day camps throughout the year which provide an environment where these clients can build friendships, gain skills, and feel supported.