Outreach Qatar celebrated the achievements of Neeraj Babu, a Grade 6 student of DPS-Monarch International School, who won freestyle and backstroke gold and a breaststroke bronze in the under-11 category in the swimming competitions jointly organised by Special Olympics Qatar, Qatar Paralympic Committee and Qatar Autism Society. He was coached by Rodesa.
Outreach Qatar general secretary Sameer Moosa, in his welcome address, highlighted the achievements of Neeraj. President Avinash Gaikwad reiterated the intent of Outreach Qatar to streamline the specially-abled into the community, by including their parents and siblings, which has proved to be an effective mechanism in bringing about visible changes in children.
Neeraj's parents Babu Gopalan and Subhathra Devi, unveiled the process and challenges they had undergone to see him achieve success. They expressed their gratitude and appreciation to Outreach Qatar, that has set out to offer many more such children a gift of opportunity to merge into the mainstream community and be winners.
Thamarai Selvi, special educator and counselor, DPS-Monarch International school, narrated how Neeraj was made confident to participate in these high-end competitions, in spite of several challenges. Headmaster Sujith Kumar said they have accommodated as many specially-abled children in their school within the regulations of the state, setting an example for many to follow. He appreciated Neeraj and his parents, as well as Outreach Qatar for their extended community initiatives. He also mentioned how another student, Fatima has scored 95% in spite of being on a wheelchair and how these determined children open ways for others to think in the same line.
Outreach Qatar students Nathania, Nathan, Ashwant and Jiba feted Neeraj. The advisory council chairman Baburajan appreciated the parents, teachers, volunteers.
Indian Cultural Centre president A P Manikantan appreciated Neeraj and Outreach Qatar.
