Feature Stories

Autism school in India and Heartspring, sister schools

Merry Barua from India Prior to 2000, autism did not “exist” in the eyes of the government in India. When Merry Barua’s son, now almost 27, was diagnosed with autism in 1995, she dedicated herself to providing him with an education, as well as other children with autism in India as there were no other resources available. Merry’s program, Action for Autism, supports the Open Door School for children with autism, and the National Centre for Advocacy, Research and Training. There are nearly 4 million people in India with autism, yet only 20 schools serving this population, the first started by Merry in the mid 1990s.

Merry is a 2007 recipient of the Heartspring Award for Innovation and Creativity in Special Education and participated in the Heartspring Summer Session with five other winners July 6-9, discussing ways to improve special education and resources around the world.

As a result of her positive experience with Heartspring, she has agreed to a sister school relationship with Heartspring, offering the opportunity for additional support through a cultural and informational exchange between Heartspring staff and the teachers at Action for Autism. In 2005, Heartspring entered its first sister organization agreement with Stars and Rain Institute for Autism in Beijing, China.

“Having the opportunity to collaborate with Merry and Action for Autism significantly raises Heartspring’s ability to change the lives of children with special needs worldwide. She is a remarkable woman whose commitment to special education has provided resources and training to families in India and surrounding countries. Working together, along with other organizations in Europe and Asia, we can disseminate knowledge to those around the world seeking a better life for children with special needs,” said Gary Singleton, Heartspring President and CEO.