(November 18, 2010) A Catholic institution working among the speech and hearing-impaired
children in Meghalaya has won a national award for its mission. The Ferrando Speech
and Hearing Centre, managed by the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians in
the state capital of Shillong, received the National Award for Child Welfare from
Indian President Pratibha Patil at a function in New Delhi on November 14. “Our service
to the less privileged has been recognized by the state and the country. We are motivated
and encouraged to do more,” Sister Katherine Joseph, who heads the congregation in
Meghalaya, told UCA News. The school founded in 1996 caters to some 1,500 children
who come from all seven states in north-eastern India. Sister Merly Tom, the founder
director, said that the award has made her and her children happy. “I am grateful
for the award,” she added. Sister Tom said the school now has 145 boarders from primary
to secondary level. Some attend vocational training courses, she added. The school
also conducts outreach and awareness programs and diagnostic camps in villages and
provides integrated education and vocational training. The staff includes seven nuns
and 50 teachers. Among the teachers, 19 are themselves disabled, training the children
in skills such as embroidery, woollen cloth weaving and the making of candles and
cards.