Early Life and Inspiration
From a young age, Dr. Vandana Sharma developed a strong inclination toward education, human development, and emotional well-being. With a natural sensitivity toward the needs of individuals, especially children, she was drawn to the fields of psychology and teaching. These areas allowed her to combine empathy with scientific understanding, forming the foundation of her lifelong mission to ensure that every child, regardless of ability or circumstance, receives dignity, opportunity, and a meaningful voice.
Her early convictions shaped her professional path, guiding her toward a career focused on inclusion, empowerment, and holistic development.
Career and Contributions
With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Vandana Sharma is regarded as one of India’s foremost educationists, psychologists, and champions of inclusive education. As the Founder Principal and later the Chairperson of Mata Bhagwanti Chadha Niketan, a charitable institution supported by The Ponty Chadha Foundation, she has created one of India’s most respected centres for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Under her leadership, MBCN evolved into a model institution offering comprehensive support through:
Special education
Early intervention programs
Therapeutic and rehabilitative services
Vocational skill training
Assistive technology and AAC tools
Family support and community empowerment initiatives
Her philosophy is centered on empowerment through dignity. She believes that every child deserves not only care but also the tools to communicate, learn, and participate fully in society. This principle guides every program developed under her direction.
In addition to her work at MBCN, she has significantly strengthened The Ponty Chadha Foundation’s disability-focused initiatives, including Ability Connect, which supports employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.
Innovations in Inclusive Education
Dr. Sharma is widely recognized for bringing modern innovations and scientific methods into special education. Her initiatives include:
AI-based Individualized Education Plan systems
Data-driven teacher dashboards to monitor student progress
Structured parental support modules for home-based learning
AAC innovations, including the in-house communication app VAAKYA designed for non-verbal children
Comprehensive vocational programs that prepare students for employment and independent living
Her work combines compassion with strategic vision, ensuring that every initiative delivers emotional value as well as measurable developmental outcomes.
National and International Recognition
Dr. Vandana Sharma has earned considerable recognition at the national and international levels for her contributions to education and disability inclusion.
Awards for MBCN under her leadership include:
National Award in 2018 from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, for Best Institution for Holistic Comprehensive Services
State Award in 2022 from the Government of Uttar Pradesh for exemplary service in disability empowerment
Derozio Award in 2011 for Education and Human Enrichment, one of India’s most prestigious educational honours
Awards received personally by Dr. Sharma include:
Principal of the Year in 2021 from Universal Mentors Association for promoting education as a social mission
Awards and recognition for The Ponty Chadha Foundation under her stewardship include:
NGO Leadership Award in 2025 by the World CSR Congress
Ranked among the Top 5 Best NGOs of 2025 at the Global CSR and ESG Awards
These honors highlight her sustained impact on accessibility, inclusion, sustainability, and educational transformation.
Advocacy and Thought Leadership
Dr. Sharma has represented MBCN and The Ponty Chadha Foundation at prominent national and international platforms. Her advocacy focuses on:
Inclusive education policy development
Awareness on neurodiversity
Standardized and specialized teacher training
Employment pathways for persons with disabilities
Community sensitization and empowerment
Her work continues to influence public understanding and institutional frameworks relating to disability rights and educational equity.
External Links
MBCN School
https://www.mbcnschool.org/
The Ponty Chadha Foundation
https://www.thepontychadhafoundation.org/
PCF Threads
https://www.threads.com/@thepontychadhafoundation
PCF Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thepontychadhafoundation
PCF Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ThePontyChadhaFoundation
