Vocational skills training, plays vital role in self-dependence and economic viability of persons with special needs.  But due to challenges faced in regular job places, finding and sustaining an employment remains a big challenge for them. Rising Sun has developed a successful sheltered employment project named “Special Chef”. This project was initiated in Rising Sun Institute for special children, Mughapura campus with one cooking teacher and three semi trained students with special needs. Project team started by purchasing fresh vegetables, fruits, poultry and other food items from nearby market and preparing cooked items. Initially they delivered ready products to their own school canteen. Now they are taking orders and delivering bakery and frozen food items on very reasonable rates.

After a period of two years, gradually, the number of production team has increased to13. Three team members are now well trained and supervise their fellow team members. All members of team earn according to their share in the work. Now this project has been expanded to DHA campus as well.

This successful experience demonstrates that an enabling, inclusive work environment helps in successful employment of adults with intellectual impairment.