KASARGOD: A brainstorming session on BUDS schools has suggested that these special schools, established for the mentally and physically challenged children, should be brought under the services of the State Health Department.
At present, 60 BUDS special schools are functioning in the state under the Kudumbashree Mission.
BUDS rehabilitation centres for the day-care, continuing training and vocational training for differently-abled above 18 years have also been established.
The seminar concluded on Saturday, attended by representatives from all districts, experts and officials, suggested that the special schools should be brought under Health Department to maximise the benefits.
It was also mooted that the BUDS schools should function in close coordination with District Early Intervention Centres.
The participants also suggested a package for quality enhancement of training at BUDS special schools and proposed district-level review of the functioning of these institutions.
Social Justice Department officials informed that the state government has approved the proposal to start BUDS schools and rehabilitation centres in every panchayat.
Earlier, N A Nellikkunnu MLA inaugurated the seminar. Kasargod municipality chairman T E Abdulla presided over the function.
District Panchayat president P V Shyamala Devi, BUDS state consultant Kalidasan, District Social Justice Officer R P Padmakumar, Kudumbasree District Coordinator Abdul Majeed Chembarikka, M Muhammed Kuhi, K V Vijayan and N A Khalid also spoke on the occassion.