Manovikas Special School for Mentally Disabled Children is a dedicated institution committed to providing quality education, therapy, and care for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our school is not just a place for learning—it is a home of hope, empowerment, and transformation.
Who We Are
The vision for Manovikas was born from the compassion and determination of Mr. Jacob D., who recognized the dire need for educational opportunities for mentally handicapped children, especially in rural Kerala. Motivated to make a meaningful difference, he laid the foundation for Manovikas School for Mentally Handicapped Children on June 6, 1994, in the peaceful village of Pallisserickal, Sasthamcotta in Kollam District.
What began as a humble initiative with 15 children from nearby villages, quickly grew to meet the needs of many. Within a month, the number of students increased to 39, and by the end of the first year, 108 children from various parts of Kerala were receiving special education and support under the care of Manovikas.
Our growth was guided by the expertise and technical support of the National Institute for the Mentally Handicapped (NIMH), Hyderabad, who sponsored two assistant directors to help in the early stages. Their assessment and training programs played a vital role in building a strong foundation for the school’s approach to individualized care and education.
The Birth of Manovikas Trust
In 1996, to ensure long-term sustainability and accountability, the school was formally brought under the management of a charitable organization known as the Manovikas Trust. The trust’s uniqueness lies in its inclusive governance—many of its members are parents and family members of the students, ensuring that the institution always prioritizes the best interests of the children.
Driven by compassion and community support, Manovikas Trust expanded its reach. In 1998, a second school was established in Puthoor, specifically for students above 18 years of age, providing them with vocational training, skill development, and life coaching to help them lead more independent lives. Today, 56 students are enrolled in the Puthoor centre.
The Trust didn’t stop there. Understanding the need to make special education more accessible, special schools were also initiated in 10 villages, making Manovikas a truly grassroots movement for inclusive education in Kerala.
Our Mission
At Manovikas, our mission is to empower children with mental disabilities by providing them with a nurturing environment, individualized learning plans, special therapies, and life skills training. We strive to help each child achieve their fullest potential—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our Approach
Every child is unique. That’s why we follow a child-centered approach, ensuring that our educational programs are tailored to meet each student’s abilities and challenges. With a qualified team of special educators, therapists, and caregivers, we integrate:
- Special education with functional academics
- Speech, occupational, and physical therapy
- Behavioral support and counseling
- Cultural activities, art, and music therapy
- Life skill and vocational training
We believe that disability is not inability, and with the right support, every child can lead a life of dignity, purpose, and joy.
What We Do
At Manovikas, we provide a comprehensive, individualized program that combines education, therapy, emotional care, and vocational training. Our services include:
- Special education with a focus on functional academics
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy and physiotherapy
- Behavioral and emotional support
- Life skills and self-care training
- Art, music, and cultural development
- Parental counseling and support programs
- Vocational training and community outreach
Each program is designed with the understanding that no two children are the same. Our tailored approach ensures that every student receives the attention and tools they need to progress at their own pace.
Our Philosophy
We operate on the firm belief that disability is not inability. Every child has strengths and hidden talents waiting to be discovered. At Manovikas, we strive to build confidence, encourage independence, and enhance quality of life for our students. We create a joyful learning atmosphere where love and understanding replace stigma and judgment.
Inclusion, dignity, and empathy are the pillars of our philosophy. We aim not only to educate the children but also to raise awareness in society about the capabilities and rights of individuals with disabilities.
Our Impact
Over the years, Manovikas has touched the lives of many children and their families. Numerous students have progressed to higher levels of self-sufficiency, while many parents have found peace of mind through our guidance and support. We continue to inspire transformation—one child at a time.
Our work is supported by compassionate donors, volunteers, government bodies, and well-wishers who believe in our cause. Through sustained fundraising, public involvement, and community programs, we extend our reach to those who need us most.
Join Our Journey
The work we do at Manovikas would not be possible without the support of kind-hearted donors, volunteers, parents, and professionals who share our belief in equality, inclusion, and love. We invite you to join us—whether as a volunteer, supporter, donor, or simply as a friend of our children. Together, we can build a more compassionate and inclusive society, one child at a time.
Annual Report 2019–2020
Details about the academic year 2019–2020, covering:
- 26 years of dedicated service
- Admission of 28 new children
- Important events and celebrations (Reading Day, Praveshanolsavam, Onam, Christmas, etc.)
- Collaborations with organizations like Thanal Charitable Society, Rotary Club, Kollam Round Table, and Krishi Bhavan
- Key projects like DISHA, SNAC, DDRS Grant utilization, Magic Planet admission, and awareness programs
- Participation in district and state-level programs (e.g., Buddy Walk, World Disabled Day, equivalency exams)
- Visits, inspections, and financial support updates
- Foundation laying for the new school building with MPLADS funding
- Regular Director Board meetings and the response to COVID-19 restrictions