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Focus on inclusive healthcare and education for individuals with intellectual disabilities
CHANDIGARH: In a significant step towards promoting inclusive healthcare and education, Desh Bhagat University (DBU) has become the first university in Punjab to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Special Olympics Bharat (SOB) – Punjab. The landmark agreement was signed during a ceremony held at the university campus, marking a new chapter in DBU’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.
The MoU was formalised under the leadership of Chancellor Dr Zora Singh, Pro-Chancellor Dr Tejinder Kaur, President Dr Sandeep Singh, and Vice-Chancellor Dr Harsh Sadawarti. This collaboration—recognized as the first of its kind in the state—aims to advance healthcare accessibility and educational inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities, in partnership with Special Olympics Bharat, which operates under the national leadership of President Dr. Mallika Nadda.
Several distinguished dignitaries and academicians attended the ceremony. Representing Desh Bhagat University were Dr Vikram Bali (Principal, Desh Bhagat Dental College), Dr Tejveer Singh (Vice Principal, Desh Bhagat Dental College), Dr Manmohit Singh (Professor and Clinical Director, Special Smiles, SOB Punjab), and Dr Ravneet Kaur (Associate Professor and Clinical Director, SOB, DBU).
From Special Olympics Bharat – Punjab, attendees included Col. Karminder Singh (Advisor), Mr Paramjit Singh Sachdeva (Area Director), Mr Anil Goyal (Treasurer), Mr Uma Shankar (Program Manager), and Mr Niranjan Kumar (Member).
The MoU establishes a framework for joint initiatives, knowledge exchange, and capacity building related to the healthcare and well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities. As part of the partnership, Desh Bhagat University will actively support and host programs under Special Olympics Bharat’s “Healthy Athletes” and “Healthy Community” initiatives, which include- special smiles (Dental), fun fitness (Physiotherapy)fit feet (Podiatry)healthy hearing (Audiology) med fest (Sports Physical Examination) opening eyes (Ophthalmology) and health promotion.
Speaking on the occasion, university leaders expressed pride in the association, emphasising that the collaboration reflects DBU’s vision of “education with a purpose and compassion with action.” They added that the partnership will not only strengthen health services for exceptional athletes but also create valuable learning and service opportunities for students and faculty across healthcare disciplines.
