Children with disabilities: UNESCO report highlights progress, deficiencies

Inclusive education systems wherein each individual has equal opportunity for educational progress is a top global priority. India has adopted a rights-based approach to inclusion of children with disabilities by ratifying the UN Convention on Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Education systems that are designed to be inclusive, equitable and empowering can help build inclusive societies. This dynamic and organic connection between education and society lies at the heart of creating change and achieving social justice.

The past 20 years in India have seen significant legal and political commitments towards universalization of education and right to education.

This report documents the considerable effort undertaken in the country to protect the right to education of children with disabilities (CWD), and outlines what remains to be done to achieve its full realization.

Prepared by Tata Institute of Social Sciences and commissioned by UNESCO New Delhi, the report is based on extensive research of national and international literature and attempts to provide comprehensive information on the current status of education of CWDs, evidence of achievements and continuing concerns.