Awareness Programme on “Adoption of Children Having Special Needs”

Organized at SDM Institute of Nursing Sciences, Dharwad

The SDM Institute of Nursing Sciences, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University, Dharwad, in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Dharwad, organized an Awareness Programme on “Adoption of Children Having Special Needs” as part of Adoption Awareness Month - November 2025.

The programme aimed to enhance understanding among nursing students regarding the legal procedures, challenges, and support systems involved in the adoption of children with special needs, and to cultivate sensitivity, advocacy skills, and professional responsibility toward child welfare.

Participants

• Fifth Semester B.Sc. Nursing students
• M.Sc. Nursing students (Child Health Nursing Specialty)
• Second Year GNM students

Resource Contribution

Officials from the District Child Protection Unit, Dharwad, delivered an informative session covering:

• Adoption laws and guidelines under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act
• Role of Specialized Adoption Agencies (SAAs)
• Challenges in rehabilitating children with special needs
• Government schemes and support services
• The importance of sensitization among healthcare professionals

Programme Highlights

• Presentation on the adoption process and legal framework
• Discussion on ethical responsibilities of nurses in child protection
• Case illustrations of successful special-needs adoption
• Interactive Q&A session with DCPU officials
• The importance of sensitization among healthcare professionals

Outcome

Students gained valuable insights into child welfare systems and the adoption process, enabling them to contribute more effectively in clinical, community, and public health settings. The session strengthened the commitment of SDMINS to promoting child rights, protection, and holistic pediatric care.

Acknowledgment

The institution expresses sincere gratitude to the District Child Protection Officer, Dharwad, and the DCPU team for their collaboration. Appreciation is also extended to the faculty coordinators and students for their active participation.