New app by AIIMS, Nagpur, set to transform lives of children with epilepsy
The app is already making a difference by creating awareness among teachers who were earlier unsure or fearful of what to do when a child has a seizure. With this easy-to-use tool, teachers are being trained to respond calmly instead of panicking, which could bring a major shift in how children with epilepsy are supported in schools.
"We want every teacher to be prepared to handle the situation. Through this app, we are spreading knowledge that will empower schools, reduce fear, and change the lives of children living with epilepsy," said Dr Prashant Joshi, executive director of AIIMS, Nagpur, while launching the app.
The app is part of a national project called Tele-ESSI (Tele-school Health-led Epilepsy Smart Schools in India), led by AIIMS, Nagpur, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The goal is to equip at least one staff member in every school with practical skills to manage seizure situations confidently.
The app is available in regional languages so that it can be used even in rural and remote areas by teachers, parents, school staff, and primary healthcare workers.
"This app simplifies medical knowledge through everyday language. It breaks the fear barrier and gives confidence to teachers and parents to act in time, without panic," said Dr Shikha Jain, paediatric neurologist and principal investigator of the project. "We hope this will reduce the number of missed school days, help avoid injuries during seizures, and stop the social stigma children with epilepsy often face," she added.
Epilepsy affects nearly 5 million children in India, but many go undiagnosed or untreated. Schools are where children spend most of their time, but teachers often lack the training to deal with seizures, leading to fear, confusion, and misinformation.
With the Tele-ESSI app, AIIMS, Nagpur, wants to ensure that no child is left behind due to fear or lack of awareness. Teachers using the app are already learning how to give seizure first aid, something that can save lives and bring peace of mind to parents.
The initiative is backed by a dedicated team including Dr Sujiv Akkilagunta, Dr Urmila Dahake, and Dr Prasenjit Patil, who helped organise the launch and training programmes.
BOX
HELPING HAND
The Tele-ESSI app uses cartoon-style animated videos to answer three simple but critical questions:
How to identify a seizure?
What to do immediately when a child has a seizure?
When should the child be taken to a hospital?
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