Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has received Centre of Excellence status for its disability education programs. The university also secured approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish a new Department of Disability Studies. These advancements strengthen education, research, and training aimed at empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwD) across the nation.
Centre of Excellence Status Conferred
The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) officially conferred the Centre of Excellence status upon JMI. This recognition highlights the university’s disability-related programmes, which contribute to the empowerment and rehabilitation of PwD. These programmes operate through JMI’s Department of Teacher Training and Non-Formal Education and its Department of Psychology.
According to JMI officials, the programmes earned acknowledgment for their academic quality, professional relevance, and social impact. The departments currently offer specialized BEd and MEd programmes in Special Education. These focus on Learning Disability and Visual Impairment. An advanced diploma in Childhood Guidance and Counselling is also available.
JMI reports that these educational pathways prepare qualified special educators and professionals. These individuals are equipped to work with diverse disability groups. They serve across various educational and rehabilitation settings.
The approval period for these disability education programmes received an extension. The current clearance allows the programmes to run for a maximum of seven years. This duration exceeds the standard five-year approval period. JMI highlighted the extended approval as significant.
Programmes under the Department of Psychology also benefited from an extended approval. These programs previously held only a three-year approval. They now also operate for a full seven academic years. This extension removes the need for re-application or renewal for the entire seven-year term, ensuring program continuity.
New Department of Disability Studies Established
The University Grants Commission (UGC) granted approval for JMI to establish a dedicated Department of Disability Studies. This institutionalizes disability-focused education, research, and comprehensive training at the university.
JMI Vice-Chancellor Mazhar Asif commented on the Centre of Excellence status. He called it a milestone. Asif stated it strengthens disability-focused education, research, and training at JMI. He emphasized JMI’s deep commitment to empowering and rehabilitating Persons with Disabilities.
Registrar Mahtab Alam Rizvi recognized the role played by faculty members. He noted their efforts in establishing the Department of Disability Studies. Rizvi affirmed the department’s foundation reflects the commitment and hard work of the faculty. He projected the department would make a lasting contribution to teaching and training in the field of disability studies.
Coordinator Mohd. Faijullah Khan reiterated Jamia Millia Islamia’s sustained commitment. He stated this recognition reaffirms the university’s dedication to inclusive education. It also reinforces professional training within disability and rehabilitation sectors.
Future Growth in Disability Education
Jamia Millia Islamia has outlined plans to expand its academic offerings. The university intends to introduce additional specialized programmes. These future initiatives will concentrate on the education and holistic development of Persons with Disabilities. This strategic expansion aligns with JMI’s broader commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment. It also aims to meet the evolving needs of Persons with Disabilities.