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This scheme, supported by the UGC, aims to provide equal educational opportunities in higher education for people Read More... with disabilities, as required by the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995. Read less
Details
The Higher Education for Persons with Special Needs (HEPSN) scheme is a crucial initiative by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to make higher education more accessible and enriching for individuals with disabilities.
What Is This Scheme?
The HEPSN scheme focuses on creating an inclusive and supportive environment within higher education institutions. It aims to remove barriers, provide necessary aids, and foster awareness about the capabilities of people with special needs, ensuring they have equal opportunities to learn and succeed.
Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?
This scheme is designed for institutions that enroll students with disabilities. This includes individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments, locomotor disabilities, and other recognized disabilities as per the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995.
Why This Scheme Is Important
The HEPSN scheme is vital for upholding the right to education for all citizens. By equipping colleges with better infrastructure, special equipment, and support units, it empowers students with disabilities to pursue their academic goals and achieve their full potential, contributing to a more equitable society.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
Eligibility Criteria
- Colleges must have enrolled students with disabilities, including visual, hearing, or locomotor impairments, as defined by the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995.
- Institutions need to be approved by the UGC under Sections 2(f) and 12B.
- Colleges should have formed an expert committee that includes faculty, disability experts, and differently-abled individuals. This committee must meet at least annually to review scheme-related activities.
How To Apply
Colleges interested in implementing the HEPSN scheme should follow the official application procedures outlined by the University Grants Commission (UGC). While specific application forms and deadlines are provided by the UGC, the general process involves submitting proposals detailing how the college plans to establish enabling units, improve campus accessibility, and procure necessary equipment. You can find more details on the official UGC website or through relevant circulars.
Official Link for UGC Information: https://www.ugc.gov.in/
Documents Required
While the scheme primarily supports institutions, individual students seeking support or availing services might need to provide documents. For college applications, detailed proposals and institutional credentials are key. For students, common documents may include:
- Aadhaar Card.
- Two passport-sized photographs (signed across).
- Residential Certificate.
- Disability Certificate.
- Bank Account details (Bank Name, Branch Name, Address, IFSC Code, etc.).
- Proof of Latest Educational Qualification (Passing Certificate or Marksheet).
- Bonafide Certificate from the School/College.
- Any other document required by the College or the District Social Welfare Office.
FAQ’s
What is the main aim of the HEPSN scheme?
The main aim of the Higher Education for Persons with Special Needs (HEPSN) scheme is to create an environment in higher education institutions that enhances the learning experience for differently-abled individuals and ensures they have equal educational opportunities.
How does the scheme help in making colleges accessible for students with disabilities?
Colleges can receive a one-time grant of up to ₹ 5,00,000 to address accessibility issues. This includes building ramps, special toilets, and ensuring all existing and new structures on campus are disabled-friendly, in line with the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995.
Can colleges get funds to buy special equipment for students with disabilities under HEPSN?
Yes, colleges can receive an ad hoc one-time grant of up to ₹ 1,50,000 during the Twelfth Plan period to procure special learning and assessment devices. This also supports providing readers for visually challenged students.
What is an 'Enabling Unit' and what does it do?
An Enabling Unit is a resource unit established in colleges to create awareness about the needs of differently-abled persons. It also facilitates admissions, provides guidance and counseling, and assists graduates in finding employment. A faculty member coordinates it, receiving a ₹ 4,000 per month honorarium, and the unit gets ₹ 50,000 annually for expenses.
What types of disabilities are covered under the HEPSN scheme?
The scheme covers disabilities as defined by the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995. This includes persons with visual impairment, hearing impairment, locomotor disability, and other recognized disabilities.
Which institutions are eligible to apply for the HEPSN scheme?
Institutions eligible to apply are those that have enrolled students with disabilities and are approved by the UGC under Sections 2(f) and 12B. They must also have formed an expert committee to review activities related to the scheme.
Where can I find official information or apply for the HEPSN scheme?
Official information and application procedures are provided by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Colleges should refer to the UGC website and relevant circulars for details on how to apply and for specific deadlines.
What are the specific objectives of the HEPSN scheme?
The objectives include providing equal educational opportunities, creating awareness about the needs of differently-abled persons among higher education functionaries, equipping institutions with accessible facilities, providing special devices to enhance learning, and monitoring policies related to higher education for differently-abled persons.
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