NCPEDP Honors First Graduates of Javed Abidi Fellowship, Empowering Disability Advocates
Bengaluru, 29 October 2024: The first cohort of NCPEDP-Javed Abidi Fellows has successfully completed its 3-year fellowship program. At the convocation ceremony held in Bengaluru on October 28, 2024, a bright and diverse group of 21 fellows from across the country celebrated their achievements, marking significant progress in disability advocacy and policy reform. The fellowship covered a wide range of disability issues, with research topics including accessibility in public healthcare, the impact of climate change on persons with disabilities, inclusive online education, digital accessibility, employment opportunities for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (an invisible disability), and the need for accessible transportation, among others.
The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) launched the NCPEDP Javed Abidi Fellowship on Disability during the Covid-19 pandemic. Supported by the Azim Premji Foundation, this initiative is specifically tailored for youth with disabilities, equipping them with the advocacy tools necessary to address the barriers they face daily.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 16% of the global population lives with some form of disability. In India, this proportion translates to about 200 million people or roughly 14% of the nation’s population. Despite legislative strides, including a 4% reservation for persons with disabilities in government jobs, employment remains a significant hurdle, and similar challenges persist across other sectors as well. In this context, the extensive research conducted by the fellows contributes to a strong foundation for disability advocacy and policy-making.
Arman Ali, Executive Director of NCPEDP, expressed immense pride in the fellows’ accomplishments, stating, “The fellowship program marks a significant milestone in empowering young leaders within the disability rights movement. Our fellows have demonstrated that informed advocacy and persistent engagement can lead to substantial policy shifts and community empowerment. Their work is a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Late Shri Javed Abidi and his vision for a barrier-free world.”
NCPEDP trustee Meenu Bambani delivered the event’s keynote address. The event was graced by distinguished representatives from the Azim Premji Foundation, Mphasis, Artilab Foundation, The Nudge, Dhwani Foundation, United Way Bengaluru, Neomotion Life, Go Sports, Astha, Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, and LGT Venture Philanthropy.
NCPEDP announced plans to launch the second chapter of this impactful fellowship. The continuation of this program aims to provide youth with disabilities with meaningful experiences that support their involvement in the development sector and self-employment,