Positive societal perspective towards specially abled needed, says expert

At Jananayak Chaudhary Devi Lal (JCD) Vidyapeeth, Sirsa, a two-day state-level Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) programme titled "Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its Relevance in Inclusive Education" was inaugurated at the auditorium of JCD Teaching College, with support from Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), New Delhi.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof Rajkumar from the Department of Education, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, who was the chief guest. Dr Jaiprakash, Director-General of JCD, chaired the event.

Dr Jaiprakash, the programme coordinator, welcomed the guests and highlighted the objectives of the two-day state-level CRE programme. He mentioned that 150 participants from various states were attending the event.

He emphasised the importance of rehabilitation education as both a necessary and a social responsibility that requires continuous improvement.

He explained the educational processes involved in rehabilitation programmes, where professionals are given the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, skills and practice in their field.

He also discussed the three principles of UDL and pointed out that despite the advances in the 21st century, there have been few significant changes in the situation of disabled people.

Jaiprakash stressed the need to create a more positive societal perspective towards persons with disabilities, though some negative attitudes and discrimination still persist.

Prof Rajkumar, the chief guest, wished the participants well and highlighted the importance of UDL knowledge for both special and general educators. He suggested that RCI should organise at least one programme specifically for general teachers, enabling them to teach both regular and special children together. He emphasised that UDL positively impacts the learning experience of all students.