As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting inclusive education and child development, the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, through its Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC), facilitated two awareness workshops in collaboration with Cute Brains Pvt. Ltd. to equip educators with the knowledge and tools to support children with learning differences, including dyslexia and dysgraphia.

The first workshop was conducted at the IIT Kanpur Outreach Centre in Noida. It brought together 30 teachers from Delhi NCR and Bulandshahr, representing government and private institutions. The session focused on developing educator sensitivity to early indicators of learning differences and on the role of non-clinical assessments in identifying student needs within inclusive classroom settings.

The second session was held at Gyandevi Balika Inter College in Bhadohi. Designed as a workshop-cum-sensitization program, it introduced faculty members to inclusive teaching methods and emphasized the importance of early intervention strategies for students facing learning challenges.

Speaking on the initiative, Prof. Braj Bhushan, Professor (HAG), Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Kanpur, said, "Identifying and addressing learning differences such as dyslexia and dysgraphia at an early stage is critical for ensuring that every child has a fair opportunity to learn and grow. These workshops mark a significant step towards sensitizing educators and equipping them with the psychological insights and tools necessary to foster inclusive classrooms. As an institution, we are committed to supporting initiatives that bridge research and practice in the service of social equity."

The workshops were supported through CSR funding from the Dana Foundation and reflect the continuing collaboration between Cute Brains and SIIC, IIT Kanpur. Cute Brains, incubated at SIIC, focuses on addressing learning differences through a comprehensive, technology-enabled approach. Their programs aim to sensitize parents and teachers, conduct non-clinical assessments in school environments, and deliver personalized, app-based interventions through the Assistive Application for Children with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia (AACDD).

Through these workshops, IIT Kanpur and Cute Brains reaffirm their commitment to advancing inclusive education by equipping educators with evidence-based tools and strategies. By fostering awareness, early intervention, and empathetic teaching practices, the initiative aims to build a more supportive learning ecosystem where every child, regardless of their learning needs, can succeed.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.