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The Ministry of Education in India has launched the second round of its Capacity Building Programme on Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) as part of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme (MMTTP).

This initiative aims to equip Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) with the skills and knowledge necessary to support students with specific learning disabilities effectively.

Background

Under the New National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, learning disabilities are recognized among various groups of students, with a commitment to promoting equitable and inclusive education.

Higher Education Secretary Sanjay Murthy emphasized the importance of HEIs being aware of students with specific disabilities and being prepared to address the challenges these students face.

Murthy noted that regular capacity-building programs on learning disabilities are essential to overcoming these issues.

First Cycle of the Programme

The first round of the Capacity Building Programme on Specific Learning Disabilities was conducted in partnership with the Changeinkk Foundation from January to July.

During this phase, 27 HEIs participated, including Central Universities, IITs, IIITs, IIMs, IISERs, SPAs, and NITs.

The first cycle included various activities, such as:

• Orientation sessions
• Sensitization workshops
• Master classes
• In-person zone-wise workshops
• Monitoring implementation

Second Cycle of the Programme

The second cycle of the programme began recently and will continue until December.

This cycle will feature both online and in-person sessions for a newly selected group of HEIs.

The focus will be on strategies and tools for identifying, assessing, and addressing the needs of students with Specific Learning Disabilities.

Key aspects of the second cycle include:

• Training for heads of institutions, heads of five departments, and two representatives from each department.
• A series of interactive workshops, expert-led seminars, and practical sessions designed to enhance participants’ abilities to create inclusive learning environments.

Upon successful completion of the training, the approach will be replicated with a new group of HEIs over a six-month period.

Conclusion

The second round of the Capacity Building Programme on Specific Learning Disabilities represents a significant step towards fostering an inclusive educational environment in India.

By equipping educational leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge, the Ministry of Education aims to ensure that students with learning disabilities receive the support they need to succeed in higher education.