Vistas of Creativity: Poster Making Competition marks International Week of the Deaf

The Department of Home Science (Human Development), University of Jammu, hosted a vibrant and thought-provoking Poster Making Competition today to celebrate the International Week for the Deaf. The event, themed “Vistas of Creativity”, aimed to raise awareness about the Deaf community and their contributions to society, while also providing a platform for students with special needs to express their ingenuity and creativity.

Children of the J&K Samaj Kalyan School for hearing impaired, Shaheedi Chowk, Jammu showcased their artistic talents through posters that vividly captured the essence of their Deaf experience. Each entry emphasized themes of inclusivity, empowerment, and the importance of breaking communication barriers. Some of the posters portrayed the beauty of sign language, while others focused on the challenges faced by the Deaf community in their everyday lives.

Prof. Sarika Manhas, Head of the Department of Home Science and Coordinator Disability Initiatives, University of Jammu inaugurated the event, highlighting the importance of sensitizing the society especially the youth to the issues and rights of the Deaf community.

“This competition is not just about art; it’s about using creativity as a medium to communicate and advocate for a more inclusive society. We are proud to be part of the global movement supporting the Deaf community,” she remarked in her opening speech.

50 hearing impaired children participated in the event and were judged by a panel of esteemed faculty members. The winning posters were recognized for their originality and impactful messages. The top entries will be displayed in the Department of Home Science providing a platform for ongoing dialogue about the experiences of deaf individuals.

The event concluded with a brief address by Prof. Rajni Dhingra, former Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu who commended the efforts of the Home Science Department and encouraged students to actively participate in such initiatives. She emphasized the need to foster an inclusive environment on campus and in society at large. She mentioned that such events not only promote creativity but also spread a message of inclusivity and respect for diversity.

Sh. Roshan Bhan, Principal of J&K Samaj Kalyan School for hearing impaired graced the occasion with his presence. The teachers of the school Ms. Neelam, and Ms. Geetanjali were also present on the occasion. Team of research scholars and students of the Department of Home Science helped in successful conduct of the competition.

The competition is part of multiple community outreach activities that the University of Jammu undertakes for advocating for social change and fostering an inclusive society.