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A room full of computers, and a boy who loved his iPad
The ACE Lab was built in memory of Aaryaman. He loved his iPad — and that gave his family an idea: if a screen could open the world for one child, it could open it for many.
This is our computer room.
It is named after a boy called Aaryaman.
He loved his iPad.
Now many people learn here.
In short
- Started April 2015 with eight computers
- Set up by the Singh family and Dr. Nilima Sabharwal
- Job courses, school subjects and computer skills
- Students with and without disabilities in the same batch
- Also used by our staff, D.Ed. trainees and AICTE students
The story
In April 2015 the Singh family and Dr. Nilima Sabharwal set up a computer centre at Manovikas in Aaryaman's memory. It began with eight desktop machines — chosen because they were powerful and, above all, steady. A learner who struggles with a slow or stuttering computer soon stops trying.
The idea was simple. Basic computer skills first. Then adapt the technology to the person, rather than asking the person to adapt to the technology. Then keep going until the skills are good enough to be worth paying for.
Ten years on, learners here move from their first careful keystrokes to Photoshop, CorelDraw and animation — and from there into work.
In 2015 a family gave us eight computers.
They did it to remember Aaryaman.
First people learn easy things.
Then harder things.
Then they can get a job.
Everyone learns together
Students with intellectual disabilities and young people from government schools and low-income neighbourhoods sit in the same batch, at the same machines, learning the same software.
That is deliberate. Learning next to each other does something no lesson can teach: it makes difference ordinary. Our students get more than technical skills — they get practice at being part of a mixed group, which is exactly what a workplace is.
Different people learn here together.
Some have a disability. Some do not.
They sit side by side.
They become friends.
Courses at the ACE Lab
Domestic Data Entry Operator
Learn typing, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. This is our most placed course, and some students go on to sit government exams.
You learn to type on a computer.
You learn Excel and Word.
You can work in an office.
Domestic IT Help Desk Attendant
Learn to take computer problems from people and get them fixed. Tanya did this course and now runs our help desk on her own.
You learn to help people with computers.
You learn to answer questions.
You can work at a help desk.
Multimedia & Design
Three modules at the ACE Lab: Photoshop for photos, CorelDraw for drawing and logos, and Stop Motion for making short films.
You learn to make pictures on a computer.
You learn Photoshop and CorelDraw.
You can make videos too.
Fees & admission
We will talk about fees when you come and meet us. Some families pay nothing. Please contact our OPD desk and we will explain everything. There are no hidden charges.
We will talk about money with you.
Call us or send a message.
Some families pay nothing.
Come and see the lab
You can visit us.
Call us or send a message.
Ask about joining Book an appointment All vocational courses
Other programmes
Think College @ MIHE
Inclusive higher education for people with IDD — and Equal Opportunity Cell support for colleges.
D.Ed. Special Education (IDD)
RCI-approved 2-year diploma. Train as a special educator.
Vocational Skills & Livelihood
SCPwD and NIOS-accredited skill training, work readiness and placement.
Rehabilitation Services (OPD)
Assessment and therapy — psychology, speech, occupational therapy, special education.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Help with fees, books and equipment. Free help claiming Government scholarships. Open all year.
