Tripartite MoU Signed Between DEPwD, NIOS, and NCERT to Promote Inclusivity
A significant milestone in promoting inclusive education was achieved today in New Delhi with the signing of a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The event was attended by Union Ministers Dr. Virendra Kumar and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, who emphasized the importance of equitable educational opportunities for persons with disabilities in line with national policies.
Objectives of the MoU
The primary aim of this collaboration is to create a comprehensive framework that supports inclusive education for individuals with disabilities. This initiative aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The partnership seeks to foster an educational environment that empowers persons with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to learning opportunities throughout the country. By establishing a robust system, the MoU represents a crucial step toward achieving an inclusive educational ecosystem.
Special Accredited Institutions for Education of the Disabled
As part of the agreement, NIOS will set up Special Accredited Institutions for Education of the Disabled (SAIEDs). These institutions will recognize special schools operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that receive funding under the DEPwD’s Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS). The SAIEDs will provide various educational programs, including Open Basic Education (Levels A, B, and C), Secondary, Senior Secondary, and vocational courses. NIOS will oversee admissions, examination registrations, and the distribution of self-learning materials. Additionally, the organization will ensure that students with disabilities receive necessary accommodations during examinations, including exemptions where applicable.
Commitment to Inclusive Education
During the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Virendra Kumar highlighted the potential of children with disabilities, stating that they can significantly contribute to society when provided with the right opportunities. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of equal educational access for all children, emphasizing that inclusive education is a fundamental right. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also spoke about the transformative power of education and the importance of societal awareness regarding disabilities. He announced plans to improve infrastructure in schools, including accessible toilet facilities, to prevent children from dropping out due to inadequate resources.
Future Steps and Coordination
To ensure effective implementation of the MoU, a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) will be established. This committee will consist of representatives from all three signatories and will be responsible for monitoring progress, addressing operational challenges, and ensuring that the objectives of the partnership are met in a timely manner. The commitment from the DEPwD and the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) reflects a shared vision of increasing educational opportunities for children with disabilities, aiming for their successful integration into mainstream education and beyond.
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