‘I am grateful to the Apeejay Education management and the Principal for this opportunity’

The Special Olympics International Global Centre Summit was hosted recently at the Zayed University Convention Centre in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The theme under which the summit was hosted by Special Olympics Bharat was: Inclusion for Tomorrow. The summit reflected the strong commitment the UAE has to inclusiveness in education and sports. The event was attended by several delegates.

Among them was Mr Arvind Kaushal, Head of the Physical Education Department, Apeejay School, Pitampura, who, by Special Olympics Bharat, was nominated to represent his school and country at this global summit. In a candid interview, he shared key takeaways and the steps he wants to take to apply ideas in his school community.

How did you feel when you were nominated?

It felt amazing! Being nominated was such a great honour. I am grateful to the Apeejay Education management and the school Principal for giving me this opportunity. They’ve always allowed us to explore new ideas and initiatives. Their trust and encouragement gave me the confidence to take on new challenges and innovate, which ultimately led to this nomination.

It encouraged me to push myself even more to make a difference. For instance, we recently had a unified sports day, which was a fulfilling experience. Moments like these remind me how much we can achieve when we work together.

What theme or topic stood out for you during the summit? 

The theme of technology for inclusive education struck a chord with me. It’s exciting to think about how technology can create a better learning environment for everyone in the future. Another powerful theme was empowering women and girls in sports. Seeing how the UAE embraces this concept, with women playing such key roles in sports, was truly inspiring. It made me think about how we can apply similar values here.

Has attending the summit changed your perspective as a PE HoD?

It has! It made me realise there’s so much more we can do. For example, we’ve started planning monthly sports activities for our students, particularly our athletes, to give them more opportunities to grow. I’ve also applied for a project that focuses on unified sports, which I hope will make an impact internationally. This summit reminded me that small steps can lead to big changes, especially when you have a clear vision.

What changes should India implement based on global practices?

We need to focus on three key areas. First, acceptance. We need to embrace inclusivity wholeheartedly and make it a norm. Second, advocacy. It’s important to spread awareness about the importance of inclusivity, especially for people with disabilities. Last, legislation. We need stronger policies to support these changes. Globally, countries are doing so much more, and it’s time for us to step up and catch up.

How can schools create a more inclusive environment? 

Schools play such an important role. As per the DOE and CBSE guidelines, we’re already working on admitting children with special needs, but there’s always room to grow. In our school, we’ve started conducting monthly unified sports activities, and I’ve applied for a project that will involve nine to 12 nearby schools with Apeejay School playing a pivotal role. The idea is to create a network of schools where inclusivity isn’t just encouraged — it’s celebrated.

What moment or lesson from the summit left a lasting impression on you? 

One moment that I’ll never forget was hearing from a woman in the US who was introduced as a Chief Inspirational Officer. Her story was so moving — she spoke about growing up as a child with special needs and overcoming so many obstacles. Today, she inspires others just by being herself and sharing her journey. Her words reminded me that even the smallest efforts toward inclusivity can create ripple effects that change lives.

 What are your plans for creating an impact?

My primary focus is on creating more opportunities for inclusive sports activities. We’ve already started with monthly events at Apeejay School. The aim is to create a supportive network where inclusivity thrives — not just in our school but across the community. And with the support of the management and the Principal, I’m confident we’ll achieve this.