A lesson in empathy and inclusion

Recently, Apeejay School, Saket, hosted a workshop that placed empathy, awareness and inclusion at the centre of the conversation. Organised by the school’s Interact Club, the session focused on helping students understand the experiences and challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

The workshop was conducted by facilitators associated with the Samarth Programme by Hyundai, in partnership with the Times Network, under the School Connect Workshop 2026 initiative. Through the session, students were encouraged to look beyond disability as a limitation and understand the importance of inclusion in everyday life.

A story that inspired students

A key highlight of the workshop was the presence of Ms Rajkumari, a Para Powerlifter in the 61 kg category. She lives with a 75 per cent permanent disability caused by polio in her legs.

Her journey and achievements gave students a real example of determination and discipline. Ms Rajkumari is an eight-time Gold medalist at the Delhi State Championships, with her wins spanning 2017 to 2023. She is also a six-time national medalist and has earned medals at the international level.

Her presence added a personal dimension to the workshop. Instead of understanding disability only through discussion, students had the opportunity to see how persistence and focused effort can shape a person’s journey.

Building awareness through interaction

The programme sought to create greater awareness among students while encouraging empathy towards persons with disabilities. By bringing students face-to-face with a sportsperson who has continued to pursue her goals despite physical challenges, the workshop made the subject more immediate and relatable.

The session also reflected the Interact Club’s effort to create conversations around social inclusion within the school community.

It allowed students to think about how attitudes, awareness and everyday behaviour can influence the way persons with disabilities are understood and included.