The School of Legal Studies and Tribal Rights, IQAC, HRDC, and Committee for Barrier Free Access to Persons with Disabilities to all its Facilities jointly observed World Disability Day on 2nd December 2024 on the theme “Disability Rights and Academic Spaces”. The program focussed on the importance of creating inclusive academic environments that uphold the dignity, rights, and equal opportunities of persons with disabilities.
The distinguished speaker for the event was Dr. Udaya Warunjikar, Vice President of the Bar Association of India, whose expertise in legal advocacy added immense value to the discussions. The event commenced with an inspiring welcome address by the Vice Chancellor, KISS DU Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera who underscored the need for inclusivity in educational institutions.
In an imposing keynote speech, the Vice President spoke on the intersection of disability rights and education. The address covered several vital aspects like the critical need for sensitization programs to combat stereotypes and foster empathy among educators and peers, case studies and examples of legal interventions that ensured students with disabilities could access equitable academic opportunities. Students and faculty shared personal stories of overcoming barriers in academic spaces and highlighted how inclusive practices had positively impacted their experiences.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Pragnya Mohanty