Twenty-one Children with Special Needs (CwSN) from government schools across Andhra Pradesh successfully have completed the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal, reaching an altitude of 5,364 metres (17,598 feet).

The expedition, organised under Samagra Shiksha, Andhra Pradesh, with support from the School Education Department, is considered the first government-sponsored Everest Base Camp expedition undertaken by specially-abled school students, setting a national benchmark.

Samagra Shiksha State Project Director B. Srinivasa Rao on Sunday said the 16-day expedition began on April 15, when the student team departed for Kathmandu. The group included 8 girls and 13 boys studying from Class 9 to Intermediate.

The students were accompanied by mountaineers Sheikh Himanshu and Malavath Poorna from the Adventure Sports Academy, along with K. Shankaraiah from the Samagra Shiksha Sports Division.

For many of the students, the trek represented more than a physical challenge, and symbolised their determination to overcome social stigma, discrimination and self-doubt.

By successfully reaching Everest Base Camp, they demonstrated that disability did not limit achievement when adequate support and opportunities were provided, he said.

HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh had flagged off the expedition from his camp office, encouraging the students to rely on their determination and confidence. Congratulating them on their success, he described the achievement as a matter of immense pride for Andhra Pradesh and said the students had become role models for future generations. He reiterated the government’s commitment to identifying and supporting talented students through innovative initiatives.

Rigorous preparation

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said the expedition was preceded by a rigorous preparation. The students underwent 45 days of training at Gandikota Adventure Academy, followed by 15 days of high-altitude training in Ladakh under sub-zero temperatures. The training focused on endurance, altitude adaptation and trekking discipline, while the government ensured all logistical, safety and training support.

Most of the participating students come from economically weaker backgrounds, including families of daily wage labourers. Their parents expressed gratitude to the government, stating that the expedition boosted their children’s confidence, independence and self-belief, while bringing recognition to their achievements.

Officials said the success of the expedition sends a strong message on inclusive governance and equal opportunity, and sets a model for other States to create meaningful opportunities for differently-abled students.