The Xavier's Resource Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC) has been awarded the 2024 National Award for Inclusive Education. The centre is a division of St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai. The award was presented by India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It recognises XRCVC’s contributions to education for students with disabilities.
The centre was recognised as the “Best Institution for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities” under the Divyang Sashaktikaran Hetu Sarveshrestha Sansthan category. The award ceremony is scheduled for December 3 on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
XRCVC leaders Ketan Kothari and Sam Taraporevala are part of expert committees that shape national policies. Ketan Kothari, who is visually impaired, serves as the managing consultant at XRCVC. They have collaborated with the Ministry of Education and the Braille Council of India on projects like creating e-content for disabled students. XRCVC also partners with prominent institutions, including IIT Delhi and IIT Madras.
The centre offers a range of programs and services that promote accessibility in education and daily life for people with disabilities. XRCVC has also published numerous resources and materials for educators and policymakers. These include books and guides for learning opportunities for students with disabilities across the country.
XRCVC was founded in 2003 as a centre dedicated to assistive technology for visually impaired students. Over two decades, it has grown into a national institution that supports students with various disabilities. Its innovative 360-degree approach to education has influenced policies and systems in other parts of India. Their model is scalable too.
XRCVC has also launched other initiatives. Last year, the centre partnered with the Mumbai Division of Central Railway to train frontline railway employees in disability awareness. This training, organised by the Commercial Department of the Mumbai Division, equipped Railway Protection Force and Train Checking staff with skills to assist passengers with visual impairments.
In January, the centre released an in-flight safety handbook in Braille, in English and Hindi, for Akasa Air. This release was part of the World Braille Day 2023 celebration.
Share
Tweet
