ACCESSIBILITY CHALLENGES AND CONCERNS FOR STUDENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT AT HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

The role of higher education is substantial in every student’s life as it determines the future prospects of that individual. Students with disabilities are no exemption for this. The research says that the numbers of students with disabilities who are getting enrolled in higher education institutions are very less owing to many reasons such as inaccessible teaching learning resources and assistive devices. The scenario of higher education for students with disabilities is quite pathetic as they are not disabled friendly in developing countries like India. Though the government is taking initiatives to remove the barriers across all levels such as systemic, instructional, physical and attitudinal, there has not been much progress in the provision of facilities in the higher education for the individuals with disabilities. Even after getting admission in the higher education institutions, they are at much disadvantaged state because of lack of support services. Even after the RPWD Act 2016 mandates for 5% reservation for the students with disabilities at higher education institutions, the enrollment rate is significantly low. Students with visual impairment often require additional support in terms of accessible infrastructure, learning resources and adaptive devices to access the quality education. The higher education institutions should be accountable in creating an inclusive learning environment to help students with visual impairment receive equitable and quality education that will pave way for their successful employment.