Amity University Hosts International Conference

A two-day International Conference on ‘Inclusion Through Sports’, aimed to promote sports through inclusion and change community attitudes towards persons with disabilities. The conference included professionals from North India, including clinical psychologists, special educators and physical education teachers and focused on the role of NEP 2020 in fostering sports-integrated learning. 

The conference will feature panel discussions on social inclusion, sports activities, research and health systems. Experts will discuss topics like forming effective partnerships, strengthening sports activities, celebrating success and developing inclusive health systems. Experts include Dr Kalpana Sharma, NIS Patiala, Deepak John Nayak, WWF and Dr Karthikeyan Ramachandran.

Dr Sharanjeet Kaur, Chairperson, Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi, said, “Inclusion in India is challenging, with 21 disabilities, including mental ones, unaccounted for. To achieve inclusion, 21 universities should focus on these disabilities and take responsibility for disabled individuals. 10 crore people in India suffer from mental disabilities, with at least three affected families, especially women. Sensitising the common masses to include disabled persons in mainstream society, providing equal opportunities and treating them fairly is crucial. Educational institutions should provide admission and education and create a stress-free environment. Global exchange of thoughts and ideas on disabilities is also necessary.”

A Srija, Economic Advisor (SE&L), Ministry of Education, Govt of India, stated, “NEP 2020 highlights government interventions for inclusivity of special children, including transport facilities and digital teaching modules. However, only 22 lakh children with disabilities have been identified. All three departments need to collaborate to identify more disabled individuals and improve facilities and programs.

Dr Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, said, “Amity University aligns with Viksit Bharat@2047, emphasising societal inclusion, including disabled persons. Sport education is a core part of higher education and the university collaborates with Special Olympics Bharat to include disabled persons in sports. Community engagement and sports participation are integral to achieving Viksit Bharat@2047 goals.”

Chitra Shah, Vice President, Special Olympics Bharat, said, “Special Olympics Bharat, a sports programme for special children globally, conducts programmes like Young Athletes and Unified School, ensuring equal treatment for disabled players in sports and mainstream society, promoting a developed society and country.”

Dipak Natali, Regional President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific (SOI), said, “Nearly 50 per cent of disabled people are unable to access school, highlighting the need for equal opportunities in sports. Sports can foster acceptance, change and a value-led society. Attendees included Dr Gurinder Singh, Dr S K Srivastava, Jayanti Pujari and psychology students.