Special Schools
USO takes pride in being a trailblazing organization for organizing school competitions at a national level with the primary focus on the educational and developmental needs of specially-abled children. These competitions are not merely events, but rather comprehensive initiatives designed to provide an inclusive and empowering platform for these students. By joining forces with organizations that share our commitment to inclusivity, we are able to create a more profound and impactful experience for all participants. Our competitions serve as a conduit for raising awareness about critical social and global issues. Through the themes, topics, and challenges presented in these competitions, we aim to educate not only the participants but also the broader community. These events encourage thoughtful reflection and action on matters of societal and worldwide importance.
Why Special Schools?
One of the core pillars of USO's mission is to champion inclusivity, a principle we hold dear. In alignment with this commitment, our recent competitions have been thoughtfully designed to embrace all schools, welcoming students from special schools with open arms. This approach has ushered in a new era of diversity and participation, enriching the experience for all involved.
Through this inclusive stance, we have witnessed the active involvement of specially-abled schools in some of our most significant competitions. Notably, special schools have made their mark in competitions such as ABC2 (Any Body Can Cartoon), H2Ooooh! - Waterwise Program for Children of India, and the My Immuno Booster Recipe Competition. This participation not only highlights the exceptional talents and creativity of students from special schools but also reinforces the spirit of unity and camaraderie that these events promote.
By welcoming students from diverse educational backgrounds and abilities, we are not only breaking down barriers but also fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. This approach embodies our unwavering commitment to inclusiveness and ensures that every child, regardless of their unique circumstances, has the opportunity to shine and contribute to these inspiring competitions.
Our Network of Member Schools
Beyond Boundaries Series - An Introduction
This exciting series for special schools is designed to provide a vibrant platform where students can engage in a variety of creative competitions, each aimed at promoting awareness and self-expression. From drawing and painting to cartooning, recipe-making, and dance, these activities are thoughtfully curated to tap into the students' artistic abilities. The focus is not just on showcasing talent but also on addressing significant topics that matter to their communities and the world. By participating, students get the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and express their ideas in innovative ways, using their creativity to drive meaningful conversations and inspire positive change. This initiative not only celebrates their skills but also empowers them to use art as a medium for advocacy and awareness, making a lasting impact.
Through this initiative, we encourage every student to think beyond the ordinary and use their creativity as a tool to make a difference. We believe that each participant has a unique perspective that can spark conversations and lead to innovative solutions. By turning their ideas into powerful expressions through art, dance, and culinary creations, they not only inspire their peers but also influence their communities to take action on important issues. This program aims to build a space where creativity meets purpose, empowering students to be voices of change and agents of impact, one creative stroke at a time. Together, let's celebrate the boundless potential of these young minds as they lead us towards a more aware and compassionate world!
Our Latest Competition
The E-Mime Challenge is a groundbreaking competition designed to celebrate the boundless creativity and expressive abilities of specially abled students. This unique platform empowers participants to convey emotions, stories, and ideas through the silent art of mime, without relying on words or dialogues. It emphasizes the beauty of non-verbal communication, encouraging students to explore innovative ways of storytelling and self-expression.
Beyond being a competition, the challenge fosters inclusivity by providing a supportive environment where every student’s talent and imagination are celebrated. It also helps build confidence, inspire creativity, and highlight the remarkable potential of specially abled individuals. Through this initiative, we aim to showcase how art transcends boundaries, fostering greater understanding, appreciation, and unity within the community.
Explore the complete details of the E-Mime Challenge, including guidelines, key dates, and exciting highlights—everything you need to know is just a click away.
Beyond Boundaries: Dance E-Festival Phase III Highlights
Beyond Boundaries: Dance E-Festival Phase II Highlights
Beyond Boundaries: Dance E-Festival
Day 1 - Solo Dance Performances
Beyond Boundaries: Dance E-Festival
Day 2 - Group Dance Performances
We Strongly Believe In Inclusivity
At USO, the heartbeat of our mission is the unwavering belief in inclusivity. This principle isn't just a philosophy; it's a commitment that has earned us recognition from the Government of India. This acknowledgment serves as a powerful affirmation of our dedication to creating an inclusive landscape that embraces diversity in all its forms.
We have translated this belief into impactful initiatives. We take pride in organizing competitions that transcend barriers and ensure the active participation of specially abled students.
Two such remarkable events, H2Ooooh! and the Immuno Booster Recipe Competition, stand as a testament to our commitment to inclusivity.
Through these competitions, we have not only provided platforms for showcasing talent but have also created spaces where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can contribute and shine. Join us in celebrating the transformative power of inclusivity and witness firsthand the positive ripple effects that result when diverse voices are not just recognized but actively amplified. At USO, we believe that true inclusion is not just a goal but an ongoing journey toward building a more compassionate and harmonious world.
Our Efforts Recognised
In 2020, the "H2Ooooh! Water Wise Program for Children of India" was launched in collaboration with UNESCO, Vizdem, Namami Gange, and Water Digest, aimed at educating children in India about water conservation. Notably, this program included the participation of eight students from specially abled schools as special invitees. The program was structured into three distinct phases:
Phase 1 - Awareness Phase
Phase 2 - Training and Competition Round
Phase 3 - Story Submission and Animation Film Release
In 2021, the "My Immuno Booster Receipe Competition" initiative, facilitated by Rise Infinity Foundation in collaboration with Glenmark Foundation, focused on enhancing immune health among children. The program emphasized drink and beverage topics tailored for children, aiming to promote healthier dietary choices. Simultaneously, the initiative also addressed the nutritional needs of teachers, highlighting snack and meal topics for them to encourage overall wellness and achievement. Notably, the initiative extended its reach to include specially-abled students from various special schools who actively participated.
Become A USO Member School Today
With USO Membership, schools unlock the door to a spectrum of engaging activities, all conducted on a national level. While some events are accessible at a nominal charge, others may involve a nominal student participation fee. Registration is compulsory for participation in all our activities.
Join our vibrant community of schools and embark on a journey of exploration, learning, and camaraderie with USO – where each school is not just a member but an integral part of our shared educational journey.
Our Previous Competitions
In USO, we realize that creativity knows no bounds, and every child, regardless of their abilities, is celebrated for their unique talents. At USO, we take pride in pioneering a series of competitions designed exclusively for specially abled children. These events go beyond mere contests; they are platforms that empower, inspire, and amplify the voices of these exceptional young individuals. Our competitions aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment where each participant can express themselves freely and showcase their talents. Hence, we provide a range of competitions tailored to cater to the diverse interests and abilities of specially abled children.
In collaboration with our dedicated partners, we have crafted these competitions to be more than just showcases of talent. They serve as avenues for personal growth, building confidence, and fostering a sense of belonging within a community that understands and celebrates differences. As we embark on this journey with our specially abled participants, do join us in breaking down barriers, promoting inclusivity, and celebrating the boundless capabilities of every child, proving that with the right opportunities, every dream is within reach.
See below for our impressive competitions conducted to improve confidence and empower special students, all held on a national platform.Painting Out Plastics - 2024
The Art for Change competition redefines traditional art showcases with a transformative approach to celebrating creativity through initiatives like ‘Painting Out Plastics.’ Embracing diversity, innovation, and inclusivity, this event transcends boundaries by offering a platform where students from various backgrounds and ages can express their passion and creativity while contributing ideas for environmental betterment. Coinciding with Earth Day on March 22, this year’s edition underscores our dedication to environmental consciousness and sustainability.
- Individual & High Support Category (Ages 5-15): No More Plastic Bags
- Individual & High Support Category (Ages 16+): Plastic-Free School
Beyond Boundaries Dance E-Festival - 2024
USO’s Beyond Boundaries: Dance E-Festival, held in 2024, offered a dynamic virtual stage for students to showcase their dance talents. The festival aimed to enhance creativity, self-confidence, and appreciation for dance while connecting schools nationwide. It involved 13 states, 40 schools, 114 teachers, and 662 students. The event featured two categories—Individual and High Support—conducted in three phases:
- Phase I: Solo dance performances
- Phase II: Group dance performances
- Phase III: Online result declaration
National Drawing Competition For Specially Abled Children - 2023
Conducted in 2023, the competition unfolded as a platform celebrating artistic prowess and personal gratitude. The competition was segmented into two categories: Individual and High Support, both focusing on a poignant theme, 'The Women Who Make a Difference in My Life.' Across 14 states, the competition received active participation from 47 schools, involving a commendable total of 1,236 talented students. This thought-provoking theme encouraged specially abled children to reflect on and illustrate the significant impact of influential women in their lives, emphasizing their roles, contributions, and inspirations.
ABC2: Any Body Can Cartoon - 2022
In the year 2022, USO organised ABC2 in partnership with Junior Diamond. This competition was dedicated to nurturing awareness and empowerment among students attracting substantial participation, with 488 students from 13 schools representing 8 states. This dynamic competition, segregated into Individual and High Support categories, centered around four compelling themes:
Group A - 'All Are Equal at School'
Group B - 'Every Member is Equal at Home with Little Chanakya'
Group C - 'Say No to Child Marriage to Radha'
Group D - 'Gender Equality in the Workplace with Chacha Chowdhury'
National Science Painting Competition For Specially Abled Children - 2021
Held under the aegis of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, USO launched an impactful initiative –in collaboration with CSIR-NIScPR and partnership with UNESCO. This competition aimed to unlock the creative potential of specially abled students while delving into essential scientific themes through the medium of art. The competition was divided into Individual and High Support categories and participation from 923 enthusiastic students across 34 schools, representing a wide geographical reach encompassing 15 states. The themes were:
Group A - 'What is Nature?'
Group B - 'Understanding Climate Change: Its Impact and Causes'
Group C - 'Building a Green and Better Future'.
Specially Abled Children's National Poster Making Competition - 2020
Held during COVID-19, this online competition was conducted in collaboration with CSIR-NISCAIR, and in association with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DIVYANGJAN), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt of India. This innovative competition aimed to engage specially abled children in creative expression while reflecting on pressing global issues. Participation categories were Individual and High Support, and the competition garnered participation from 27 schools across 13 states, attracting a total of 2,454 students.
The competition featured three compelling themes:
'Earth Before and After the Coronavirus Pandemic'
'How I Want the Earth to Look Like by 2050,'
'How the Coronavirus Helped Nature Heal.'
Specially Abled Children's National Science Competition - 2019
In 2019, USO conducted the first competition for specially abled students. This competition was launched in collaboration with CSIR-NISCAIR, UNESCO, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DIVYANGJAN), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India. The aim was to engage specially abled children in a realm of creativity and scientific exploration. With two categories – Individual and High Support, a total of 56 schools from 13 states participated, engaging 1665 specially abled students. The competition encompassed four stimulating themes:
Group A - 'Fun with Shapes’,
Group B - 'My Favorite Gadget’,
Group C - 'Plastic Pollution’, and
Group D - 'Machines that Help Us’
USO House Diwali Mela
At USO House, we believe in celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make our world vibrant and diverse. In the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment, we organise the ‘USO House Diwali Mela’ every year. Held on our premises, this two-day Mela, is a heartwarming event and a celebration of the incredible talents and creativity of specially-abled students from special schools, showcasing a stunning array of products crafted with love and dedication. At this unique Diwali Mela one has the opportunity to explore and purchase a wide range of handcrafted items, all lovingly created by talented students.
Diwali Magic Unfolds!
🎉🪔Celebrate the spirit of inclusion at our traditional event uplifting specially-abled students from the Delhi/NCR region! 🌟 Our highlights video captures the vibrant energy of unique, handmade eco-friendly stalls and the joy of community.
🎥Click to immerse yourself in the magic and discover how we empower creativity and independence in our incredible participants! 🪔
Diwali Mela 2023
Diwali Mela 2022
Diwali Mela 2021 (Day 1)
Diwali Mela 2021 (Day 2)
USO Activities In Specially Abled Schools
What The Schools Are Saying...
