Sudha Lhila is the director at Deepshikha Institute for Child Development and Mental Health. He joined Deepshikha as a Volunteer and became the Executive Director in 1991. Deepshikha received the Best NGO award in 2009 from the National Trust, New Delhi. The institute has received the Jharkhand Samman also.

Deepshikha Institute for Child Development and Mental Health

Being the Director of Deepshikha Institute for Child Development and Mental Health, what is your philosophy of leadership? How would you describe your leadership style?

My philosophy of leadership revolves around the belief that leadership is not about leading from the front, but rather about walking together. I strongly believe in collaboration and fostering a sense of unity among our team members. I encourage open communication, active involvement, and shared decision-making within the institute. To promote unity, I emphasize the importance of teamwork and mutual respect. I encourage regular team meetings, where everyone has the opportunity to contribute their ideas and perspectives. By fostering a culture of collaboration, we can achieve our goals collectively.

You have held key positions at this institute in your professional career. What are the key factors that keep you connected with this sector?

Every individual is created with a purpose, and I strongly believe in the ability of every person, regardless of any disabilities they may have. I believe that focusing on an individual’s abilities rather than their disabilities is crucial for their overall development and well-being. By recognizing and nurturing their strengths, we can help them overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. This belief forms the foundation of our approach at Deepshikha Institute. We provide continuous training and professional development opportunities to our team members, focusing on the importance of recognizing and nurturing the abilities of every individual we work with. This shared belief is essential in delivering effective and impactful services to our students and this belief helped me to stay connected to this sector and work towards helping individuals to reach their full potential.

What do you think your roles and responsibilities to the Institute and the students are?

My roles and responsibilities as the Director involve ensuring the sustained growth of the institute and promoting a life of dignity and independence for our students. I always try to create an inclusive and nurturing environment where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to explore their potential. To ensure sustained growth, I focus on strategic planning, implementing innovative teaching methodologies, building collaborations with other educational institutions, and staying updated with the latest research and advancements in the field of child development and mental health.

What do you see as this Institute’s greatest strengths?

The institute’s greatest strength is its unwavering commitment to adopting a positive approach towards individuals with disabilities. We have created an environment where each student’s unique abilities are recognized and nurtured. We ensure that students with disabilities feel supported and valued by creating an environment where their unique abilities are recognized and nurtured.

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What do you think should be the Institute’s top priority over the next 10 years?

I believe that the primary focus for the next 10 years should be seamlessly integrating students into the mainstream education system and bridging the gap between special education and mainstream education. We as a team aim to prioritize resources, strategies, and programs that facilitate the smooth transition of students from special education to mainstream education.

What would you like people to know about your Institute they may not know?

Deepshikha Institute plays a crucial role in advancing the rehabilitation field by providing specialized training and resources to professionals, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to make a difference in the lives of children and individuals with mental health challenges. We provide a supportive environment that encourages personal and professional growth, and for that, we provide comprehensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and access to cutting-edge research and resources. We attempt to empower individuals to excel in the rehabilitation field and make a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth and the aspiring students?

I would like to recommend pursuing a Diploma in Education - Special Education as it is a transformative course that can have a profound impact on children with special needs. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of various learning styles, behavioral patterns, and developmental stages of children. Graduates of this diploma program can pursue careers as special education teachers, inclusion coordinators, behavior therapists, or educational consultants. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to effectively engage with children of all abilities, enabling a deeper understanding of child development.