Varsity hosts training workshop on assistive tools, technologies for inclusive education
Srinagar: The University of Kashmir (KU) on Saturday held its inaugural meeting of the newly formed Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), emphasizing its commitment to inclusivity on campus.
Chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, the meeting included key university officials and representatives from the Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS) and the families of PwDs. A significant outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KU and VMS, aimed at developing skill-based workshops and training programs for PwDs.
This initiative focuses on enhancing human resources, improving infrastructure accessibility, and potentially introducing a Bachelor’s Programme in Special Education. Additionally, a two-day training workshop titled “Beyond Barriers: Reading and Learning with Assistive Tools and Technologies” was organized by the Allama Iqbal Library in collaboration with the Department of Students’ Welfare. The workshop aimed to promote inclusive education by familiarizing participants with assistive technologies that support effective learning for PwDs. Demonstrations of modern assistive technologies and AI-based learning tools were featured, highlighting their role in enhancing reading, writing, and classroom participation.
Prof. Nilofer Khan reiterated the university’s dedication to providing equitable access to education for all students, particularly those with special needs. Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal emphasized the importance of accessibility and inclusion in the academic environment, while Dean Prof. Pervez Ahmed noted that the workshop would raise awareness about assistive technologies and inclusive practices. Padma Shri Javed Ahmad Tak stressed the necessity for ongoing engagement to create barrier-free educational spaces. The event also announced the launch of a pick-and-drop service for PwD students on campus, further enhancing support for their educational experience. The technical sessions were led by experts from SAKSHAM.
