Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The ‘Hands Speak, Minds Grow’ project, an innovative initiative by the Human Touch Foundation, has successfully concluded, addressing the critical need for Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) education for deaf adolescents and their educators. Supported by Y-PEER Asia Pacific, Youth LEAD, and Disabilities 2030, and in collaboration with the Goa Association for the Deaf, the project reached 188 adolescents and 20 educators across Goa.
Participants from Lokvishwas Prathistan, Ponda, Gujarati Samaj Educational Trust Special School, Margao, and New Dawn Ashadeep Special School, Vasco benefitted from the workshops and training programs. Topics covered included safe and unsafe touch, puberty, sexual abuse awareness, personal hygiene, consent, and healthy relationships, with a focus on breaking communication barriers to create a safe and inclusive learning environment.
The workshops for adolescents were led by Masooma Shaikh, Lead, Adolescent Health and Wellbeing, and Usha Pawar from the Human Touch Foundation, with Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpretation by Josefina Fernandes, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. The final workshop for educators was conducted by Peter F. Borges, Founder of Human Touch Foundation, equipping participants with the skills to deliver SRH education independently using inclusive methods.
Reflecting on the workshops, Masooma Shaikh said, “These sessions are not just about education; they’re about empowerment and ensuring that adolescents with disabilities have the tools to recognize and protect themselves from harm. Breaking the silence on such critical topics creates the foundation for their confidence and independence.”
Peter F. Borges also emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This project is about breaking barriers, empowering individuals, and ensuring that every adolescent, regardless of their abilities, can access the knowledge they need to live with dignity and confidence. By addressing the unique vulnerabilities of deaf adolescents, we have taken a vital step towards building an inclusive and compassionate society.”
The ‘Hands Speak, Minds Grow’ project reached 188 deaf adolescents through four interactive workshops and trained 20 educators in a Training of Trainers (TOT) program. The final session, held at the Gujarati Samaj Educational Trust Special School, Margao, marked the culmination of this pioneering initiative, which used ISL, visual aids, and role-playing techniques to foster impactful learning.
Educators expressed their commitment to carrying forward the knowledge and practices gained, ensuring a sustainable impact. Participants praised the project’s innovative, inclusive approach, which bridged critical gaps in SRH education.
The Human Touch Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to Y-PEER Asia Pacific, Youth LEAD, Disabilities 2030, and the Goa Association for the Deaf for supporting this transformative initiative.