Prof. P. Jeyachandran: A Visionary in Special Education and Disability Services

Prof. P. Jeyachandran was a pioneering psychologist whose work in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities has had a profound impact on special education and disability rehabilitation in India. As the founder of Vijay Human Services and a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities, Prof. Jeyachandran dedicated his career to empowering people with intellectual and developmental challenges.

Founder of Vijay Human Services

In 1977, Prof. Jeyachandran founded Vijay Human Services in Chennai, an organisation dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The institution promotes its students’ physical, social, and psychological well-being, strongly emphasising life skills development and vocational training. His vision was to create an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities could thrive and integrate into mainstream society.

Madras Developmental Programming System: MDPS Behavioural Scale

In 1992, Prof. Jeyachandran developed the Madras Developmental Programming System: MBPS Behavioural Scale, a significant tool for assessing and programming children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This behavioural scale became a critical part of special education in India, helping educators and caregivers design tailored interventions for children based on their specific needs.

Lifelong Dedication to Special Education

Prof. Jeyachandran’s work spanned nearly six decades, during which he introduced innovative programs and designed curricula to meet the unique needs of children with intellectual disabilities. His focus on life skills training was groundbreaking, as it provided children and young adults with the tools they needed to navigate daily life, improve their social interactions, and become more independent.

Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award Recipient

In 2013, Prof. P. Jeyachandran was awarded the prestigious Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award for his exceptional contributions to disability rehabilitation and special education. The award recognised his tireless efforts to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities and his leadership in shaping inclusive education policies in India.

Legacy and Impact

Prof. Jeyachandran’s work inspires educators, psychologists, and professionals in disability rehabilitation. His contributions, mainly through the Madras Developmental Programming System and Vijay Human Services, have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals with disabilities.

Prof. Jeyachandran passed away at the age of 76. His legacy lives on through the programs and systems he created, which continue to support and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.