Globally, about 16 percent of the population lives with some form of disability. Of this, 83 percent live in developing countries. They face many obstacles and are more likely to experience adverse socioeconomic consequences. World Health Organization now considers disability a human rights issue? It emphasizes that people are handicapped by society and not by their body.
Children With Disabilities Do Not Go To School: UNESCO
The pandemic has made us realize how technology is reshaping education. The lockdown rapidly shifted schools towards online education. This metamorphosis of the education system has far-reaching effects on children with disabilities.
Internet penetration is increasing rapidly. As of January 2021 report, more than 82 percent of the youth population in 104 countries is online. Of the 831 million young people who go online, 319 million (39 percent) are in China and India, which are among the countries with the most disabilities.
This is a good sign for online education. Children are quick learners and adapt rapidly. With enough support, the adoption of e-learning may not be a big challenge. With technical support and assistive devices, it is possible to train children with disabilities in a variety of skills.
Internet services prices have dropped by an average of 50-55 percent over the past three years, and broadband and mobile services are available at much higher speeds.
An International Labour Organization report states that advances in the digital economy are creating unprecedented work opportunities for the disabled. With the rise of the gig economy, most of the work is being done from home, creating new job opportunities for physically restricted PWDs.
The 2030-31 Sustainable Development Goal focuses on “inclusive and quality education for all”. With barely nine years left for the target, more steps will have to be taken. Governments and educational bodies have an important role to play in making ICT accessible to students with disabilities. Online education can prove to be a turn off wheel for persons with disabilities in their quest to lead a meaningful life.
