Episode 26: Autism and Me: In Conversation with Shantanu Chitale

Inclusion with Mansi

Shantanu Chitale is a 20 year old, autistic who has completed his 12th from Symbiosis and is currently a second year in BTS (Bachelors in Tourism Studies). He wants to build a career in tourism.

Autism, according to him, is where he is different from other people. Some challenges that he faces are writing, reading long passages, and expressing his feelings. He still has full confidence in himself.

Shantanu shares his experiences about:

• How he has overcome some of his difficulties with the help of supportive teachers
• Importance of counselling and how it has helped him
• How changing schools has a positive impact in terms of education and friendship
• How the flexibility that NIOS Board supported him
• The importance of extra time in not only exams but in assignments as well
• Having proactive and supportive parents and getting the disability certificate

Tips for Teachers - Give extra time not only in exams but also to write journals and complete assignments. Have a nice attitude, be kind and supportive towards students with special needs.

Message for listeners- Never give up, believe in yourself. I am as good as anybody else. Don’t feel shy to ask for help as people are aware about Autism and most people are very supportive.

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