The Samaritan Association for the Blind celebrated a historic milestone on Wednesday as its Special Blind School marked 25 years of dedicated service to the visually impaired community. The Silver Jubilee event, held at M. Suaka Hall within the Durtlang Presbyterian Church, was graced by Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma as the Chief Guest, alongside PWD Minister and local MLA Vanlalhlana as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing a packed hall of students, faculty, and supporters, Chief Minister Lalduhoma delivered a moving tribute to the perseverance of the students. He noted that their determination to pursue education despite physical challenges serves as a profound source of inspiration for the entire state. Highlighting the power of the human spirit, the Chief Minister remarked that a healthy and resilient mind has the unique ability to transform significant difficulties into life-changing opportunities.
Reflecting on the history of the institution, the Chief Minister recalled a time when Mizoram lacked any dedicated facilities for the visually impaired. He praised the Samaritan Association for their persistent advocacy, which eventually secured government support and opened doors for children who had previously been deprived of formal schooling. Today, the school stands as a beacon of hope, having produced numerous successful individuals who have integrated into various sectors of society.
In a major announcement aimed at improving campus infrastructure, the Chief Minister earmarked ₹50 lakh for the construction of a dedicated girls’ hostel. Currently, both boys and girls are housed in the same building, and the new funding will ensure better privacy and specialized facilities for female students. Furthermore, the government is exploring the “provincialization” of the school’s middle section and has already granted Adhoc status and attached specialized teachers to the staff.
The Chief Minister also suggested that a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model could be the key to the school’s long-term financial and operational sustainability. He urged the school authorities and students to maintain an open line of communication with his office, assuring them that the government remains committed to fulfilling their specific needs. As the Silver Jubilee celebrations concluded, the event stood as a testament to how specialized education can bridge the gap between disability and achievement, ensuring that every child in Mizoram has a path to a bright future.
