Gayatri Narasimhan

Dr. Gayatri Narasimhan is a transformative educator and advocate for inclusive education, vocational training, and neurodiversity. Her journey began with a life-changing encounter with a child with autism, prompting her to switch from a career in software engineering and management to special education. Armed with a Doctorate in Special Education, a Post-Graduate degree in Psychology, and certifications in yoga therapy, sensory therapy, and behaviour management, Dr. Narasimhan has dedicated her life to empowering neurodivergent people. 

In 2021, she founded the Prakramika Vocational Institute (PVI) in India to address a global lack of vocational training for neurodivergent individuals. Her initiative has grown internationally, reaching Oman, the UAE, and the USA. Offering over 22 skill-based training modules free of cost, PVI removes financial barriers while equipping students with practical skills in areas such as graphic design, hospitality, communication, and leadership. Dr. Narasimhan's innovative approaches, including customized training and accessible online modules, ensure that education is inclusive and effective. 

A hallmark of her work is the "Unifying Pathways – One School, Many Abilities" project, inspired by the ancient Indian Gurukul system, which integrates mainstream and special education to foster acceptance and collaboration. During the pandemic, she expanded her impact by conducting free workshops for parents and caregivers across India, Oman, and Dubai, enabling skill-based learning at home. Her global initiative to train neurodivergent individuals has earned recognition from the United Nations for its contributions to building an inclusive world. 

Dr. Narasimhan’s teaching philosophy centres on inclusive education, vocational training, and skill development. She employs a blend of the VAKT (Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, Tactile) method and Multiple Intelligences theory to address diverse learning needs, creating environments where neurodivergent and neurotypical students learn together. Her structured curriculum, outlined in her book INVAS: An Integrated Curriculum for Vocational & Skill-Based Training, equips students with essential skills for independence and workplace readiness. She also fosters leadership and confidence by encouraging students to anchor events and engage in role-playing scenarios, preparing them for real-world challenges. 

Her impact extends beyond the classroom. Dr. Narasimhan trains teachers, parents, and caregivers to support neurodivergent individuals and has collaborated with organizations like  the AtmaNirbhar Bharat in India, the Oman Down Syndrome Association in Oman, and WeEMBRACE in USA. She also champions sustainability, integrating climate change education into her curriculum as an SDG Ambassador for Tamil Nadu, India. 

Dr. Narasimhan’s achievements are both profound and personal. She has helped students with ADHD excel academically, enabled a student with Down syndrome to start a business, and facilitated life-changing therapeutic breakthroughs. Her students' success stories—ranging from academic achievements to professional employment—demonstrate the transformative power of her methods. 

Recognized by the Prime Minister of India and global platforms like the UN Summit of the Future, Dr. Narasimhan continues to inspire educators worldwide. Her commitment to fostering inclusion, empowering individuals, and creating a compassionate society exemplifies the transformative potential of education.