The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) is a Statutory Body established by an Act of Parliament. Its main mandate is to standardize, regulate, and monitor training programs in the field of special education and disability. Additionally, RCI is responsible for maintaining the central rehabilitation register (CRR) and promoting research in this domain. The Council also prescribes minimum standards of education and training for 16 categories of professionals and personnel allocated to RCI.

The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP) marks a significant milestone in the realm of education in India. This policy is characterized by its world-class and contemporary nature, incorporating special features such as flexible education, experiential learning, practical and skill-based education, and inclusive education. Given the transformative impact of NEP 2020, RCI has taken a timely step to enhance the capacity of training institutions through a national workshop.

In light of NEP 2020, RCI has decided to organize a two-day national workshop aimed at implementing the various provisions relevant to promoting human resource development in special education and the disability sector. This workshop is scheduled to take place on 16th-17th May 2023 at Dutt Sports Club, Mandala Road, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

The inauguration of the national workshop will be graced by Dr. Virender Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri Rakesh Singh, Member of Parliament, Jabalpur, will be the Guest of Honor, while Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD & Chairperson, RCI, will be the Special Guest. Several other dignitaries and delegates are also expected to participate in the workshop.

Approximately 300 rehabilitation professionals and personnel, including parents of children with special needs, achievers from across the country, have been invited to participate in this workshop. Notably, national-level speakers have been invited to deliberate on the relevant provisions of NEP 2020 in the context of human resource development programs. Experts will also discuss the capacity building of training institutions and the potential role of NGOs in training qualified personnel in the disability sector.

The outcomes of this workshop are expected to facilitate the effective implementation of the National Education Policy and human resource development programs in the country, specifically targeting the empowerment of persons with disabilities. The Rehabilitation Council of India plans to initiate various national programs that promote flexible education, experiential learning, practical skill-based education, and ultimately, inclusive education.

Through the concerted efforts of RCI and the support and active participation of stakeholders, including professionals, parents, and achievers, India aims to create an inclusive educational landscape that empowers individuals with disabilities and fosters their holistic development. The national workshop serves as a crucial step in realizing this vision and propelling the nation towards an inclusive and equitable education system.

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