- Founded in 1992 by a group of parents, educators, and philanthropists, the Madras Dyslexia Association (MDA) supports children with dyslexia through personalized education and awareness initiatives.
- Dyslexia Awareness Month: MDA organized a ‘Dyslexia Awareness Walk’ on October 20, 2024, to raise awareness in Chennai, emphasizing the importance of creating a ‘Dyslexia sensitive society.’
- Programs and Support: The organization provides remedial help through the Ananya Learning and Research Centre (ALRC) and works with schools to set up resource rooms and conduct teacher training programs.
- Impact: For 30 years, MDA has empowered children with dyslexia to realize their strengths and succeed academically and socially, making a significant impact on families and the community.
Introduction
In 1992, a compassionate group of parents, educators, and philanthropists came together to create the Madras Dyslexia Association (MDA). Their mission is to support children with dyslexia through pragmatic solutions, focusing on personalized education and creating an understanding environment that empowers these children to thrive academically and socially.
Recent Events and Awareness Initiatives
Earlier this month, on October 20, 2024, the Madras Dyslexia Association organized a ‘Dyslexia Awareness Walk’ from Besant Nagar beach. This event was one of many to mark ‘Dyslexia Awareness Month’ celebrated worldwide every October, aimed at raising awareness among locals, parents, and schools about dyslexia.
Speaking about the event, D. Chandrasekhar, the founder of MDA, an alumnus of IIT-Madras and a first-generation entrepreneur, said, “These events are essential first steps towards enabling a ‘Dyslexia sensitive society.’ They enable parents, schools, and teachers to identify and accept this neurological condition, paving the way to facilitate remedial sessions for children with dyslexia to learn coping strategies using multi-sensory methods. This ensures that individuals with dyslexia lead a productive life instead of slipping through the cracks.”
The Role of MDA in Chennai
MDA has spent the entire month raising awareness about dyslexia and supporting children through various initiatives. The organization was founded to take a pragmatic approach to help children with dyslexia. For the past three decades, it has been providing remedial help and support to children with dyslexia and their parents through the Ananya Learning and Research Centre (ALRC).
They have also been actively working towards spreading awareness in the community at large, helping schools set up resource rooms and conducting teacher training programs.
Conclusion
For 30 years, the Madras Dyslexia Association has been a pillar of support for children with dyslexia in Chennai, empowering them to realize their strengths and potential. By fostering awareness and understanding, MDA continues to make a significant impact in the lives of many families, ensuring that children with dyslexia have the tools they need to succeed.
To learn more about the Madras Dyslexia Association and their programs, visit their website at MDA Website or follow them on Facebook.