UGC committee inspects facilities for students with disabilities at GNDU

A three-member committee appointed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) recently conducted a physical inspection of the campus of Guru Nanak Dev University to assess the facilities provided to divyang (differently-abled) students, researchers and employees. The committee was comprised of Dr GS Chauhan, Joint Secretary, UGC, New Delhi (coordinator), Prof Pramod Mehra from IGNOU, New Delhi (expert) and Prof Lokesh Gupta from Delhi University (representative of divyangjan).

During their visit, the committee members examined various campus facilities, including academic departments, the central library, administrative building, health centre, guest house, hostels, playground, auditorium, and lecture theater complex. They held meetings with students with disabilities, researchers, teachers, and non-teaching staff to understand their challenges and gather suggestions for improvements. The committee also provided valuable information on various aspects of accessibility and inclusivity.

The committee’s visit is part of a nationwide review, during which they will be submitting their report to the UGC after evaluating 30 universities across the country, including GNDU. Based on the findings of this report, the UGC will ensure that necessary facilities are made available to divyang students, researchers, employees, and officials at GNDU in the future. The UGC will also provide financial assistance to support these initiatives.

Prof Sunil, Nodal Officer of the Equal Opportunity Cell (Divyangjan) and Head of the Hindi Department at GNDU, briefed the committee members about the university’s efforts in promoting inclusivity.

Committee members also met VC Karamjeet Singh, who assured them that all necessary steps will be taken to implement their suggestions.