VERONICA NILAYA, THALANJI – 2006

Mother Veronica Special School, Thalanji Chungathara

Mother Veronica Special School caters to the education of differently abled children. It was established in 2001 by Dr. Sr. Agnesita A.C. as a day school in a small rented house. The Provincial Chapter of 1998 included an action plan stating: “We shall explore the possibilities of an organized Social Centre in Calicut city, e.g., School for the mentally retarded.” Given that Calicut city already had many rehabilitation centers, the Provincial Team decided that this special school in Chungathara would serve as the organized social center proposed by the Provincial Chapter.

After overcoming many difficulties, Sr. Rosy Joseph, the then Provincial Superior, purchased the current site of 1.5 acres of land at Thalanji in 2002. Construction of the building began at the end of 2003. By 2005, the school received recognition from the Education Department of Kerala State. The official blessing and inauguration of the school took place in 2006, officiated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Jose Porunnedam, Bishop of the Mananthavady Diocese.

Currently, Mother Veronica Special School is one of the best institutions in Kerala for differently abled children. The students excel in sports and arts, and the school features a physiotherapy and vocational unit. Well-trained special educators and specialized staff work towards the all-round development of the children.

Students receive training in various activities, including dance, music, band, sports, and games, alongside their academic studies. Notably, the school won the overall championship at the District Kalolsav in 2019.