Victoria Memorial School for the Blind

**“Our Academic Programme” at Victoria Memorial School for the Blind**

Victoria Memorial School for the Blind (VMSB) provides free education, boarding, lodging, and vocational training to nearly 100 visually impaired students annually, primarily from underprivileged backgrounds ([vmsb.org][1]). The school follows the Maharashtra state board curriculum, teaching up to Standard VIII in Marathi before transitioning students to mainstream schools. Special preparatory coaching ensures smooth mainstream integration, supported by continued hostel facilities through Standard X ([vmsb.org][1]). Additionally, medical care, sports, music training, occupational training, and coaching for 45 common entrance exams contribute to the students’ holistic development ([vmsb.org][1]).

[1]: https://www.vmsb.org/our-academic-programme/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Our Academic Programme | The Victoria Memorial School for the Blind (VMSB)"

The Conversational English Empowerment Program at VMSB equips visually impaired students with the necessary language skills to communicate confidently in English. Recognizing that most participants come from non-English-speaking homes, the program is conducted by dedicated faculty who foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Through structured speaking exercises, interactive sessions, and practical dialogues, students significantly improve their fluency. Graduates of the program emerge with enhanced communication abilities, greater self-assurance, and expanded vocational and academic opportunities. The initiative plays a pivotal role in enabling students to engage more effectively in higher education and professional settings.

The VMS‑Vijay Merchant Centre for Life Skills and Development is a specialist hub offering a wide range of therapeutic and vocational training for children with special needs. It empowers students – including those with ADHD, autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual impairments, and more – to become self‑reliant and socially confident through therapies like speech, occupational, psychological counselling, and physiotherapy. The centre also provides computer education, office skills, pottery, yoga, and dance therapy. Staffed by qualified teachers and support personnel, it fosters emotionally secure individuals poised to thrive in mainstream education and beyond.