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Just wrapped up a *game-changing strategic planning workshop* for the *Goa Association of the Deaf (GAD)*, supported by the *Social Work Programme at Goa University* and the *Human Touch Foundation.* Titled *”Vision to Action: Crafting a Strategic Roadmap for the Goa Association of the Deaf,”* the workshop focused on *five key areas* for driving impactful change:

1. Advocacy & Rights
2. Education & Skill Development
3. Employment & Livelihood
4. Health & Well-being
5. Organizational Strengthening

Through an in-depth *SWOT analysis* and engaging discussions, we’ve crafted a robust roadmap for GAD’s growth over the next two years. We’re committed to making a real difference by promoting inclusion, rights, and opportunities for Goa’s hearing-impaired community. This is just the beginning of our journey toward a more inclusive Goa!

The Goa Association of the Deaf extends its heartfelt congratulations to *Niyati Malgaonkar* for winning the prestigious title of Mrs. Deaf India 2024 in Hyderabad! We are immensely proud of her incredible achievement. It’s truly remarkable that in her very first participation, she emerged as the winner of Mrs. Deaf India 2024. May she continue to be blessed in all her endeavors!

February 17, 2024, Goa – In a significant step towards advocating for the rights of hearing-impaired children, the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR), in collaboration with the Goa Association for the Deaf and Human Touch Foundation, has rolled out an innovative program focused on Personal Safety Education and Menstrual Hygiene.

The inaugural event of this program took place at the Manohar Parrikar Memorial Hall, Sanjay School, between 10:00am and 12:00pm, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 60 participants. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in addressing the unique challenges faced by hearing-impaired children, providing them with essential knowledge and support on critical topics of personal safety and hygiene.

The session was expertly led by Sandhya Chawan and Masoom Shaikh of the Human Touch Foundation, with Josephine Fernandes, a proficient Indian Sign Language Interpreter, ensuring effective communication and engagement with the attendees. The overwhelming success of the first program underscores the importance and need for such tailored educational efforts.

The SCPCR is committed to extending these valuable training sessions to every school accommodating hearing-impaired students throughout the state, with the aim of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all children. This initiative is a testament to the collective effort in championing the rights and well-being of hearing-impaired children in Goa.

Engaged in a profound discussion with the members of *Goa Association of the Deaf* today. We delved deep into understanding the hurdles that *children with hearing impairments* face.

Child Rights Commission, Panaji on 06th February, 2024

Key Highlights:
📘 Emphasis on Quality Education
🩺 Focus on Personal Safety Education and Sexual & Reproductive Health
🔒 Prioritizing Cyber Safety

Let’s unite to support and enhance the lives of these incredible children! 🙌Engaged in a profound discussion with the members of *Goa Association of the Deaf* today. We delved deep into understanding the hurdles that *children with hearing impairments* face.

Key Highlights:
📘 Emphasis on Quality Education
🩺 Focus on Personal Safety Education and Sexual & Reproductive Health
🔒 Prioritizing Cyber Safety

Let’s unite to support and enhance the lives of these incredible children! 🙌