21 special students conquer Everest base camp

kiranmai tutika | AMARAVATI

In a story that redefines resilience, courage, and the very meaning of possibility, 21 specially-abled students from government schools in Andhra Pradesh have scripted history by successfully reaching the Everest Base Camp, one of the most challenging terrains in the world. Their journey is not merely a mountaineering feat; it is a powerful social statement against stigma, doubt, and discrimination.

Under the aegis of Samagra Shiksha, the Andhra Pradesh government launched a first-of-its-kind initiative globally, sending a team of Children With Special Needs (CwSN) on an international high-altitude expedition. The mission was flagged off by Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, who personally encouraged the students, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive empowerment.

The team, comprising 13 boys and 8 girls studying between Class 9 and Intermediate, embarked on their journey from Kathmandu on April 15. Over 16 grueling days, they trekked through extreme weather conditions, ultimately reaching the Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 metres.

Behind this remarkable achievement lay months of rigorous preparation. The students underwent intensive training at Gandikota Adventure Academy and later in the harsh terrains of Ladakh, enduring sub-zero temperatures and physically demanding drills. Guided by expert mountaineers, including Sheikh Himanshu and Malavath Poorna, they transformed determination into discipline.

Officials from Samagra Shiksha, led by State Project Director B. Srinivasa Rao, ensured that every logistical and training requirement was meticulously handled.