ABSS marks NEP anniv with CwSN camp

Samagra Shiksha, Dimapur, organised the Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) at the District Hospital Dimapur on Wednesday, in commemoration of the 5th anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Delivering the welcome address, IE Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha, DMO Dimapur, highlighted the objective of the programme, particularly the health assessments and issuance of disability certificates for children with special needs (CwSN). She noted that while the annual assessment covers many children, this year’s exercise focused on those yet to avail facilities or acquire certification. She further assured that efforts would be made in the future to reach severely affected children in block or cluster levels through partnerships with the medical department.
A brief speech was also delivered by a representative from SMO Kohima, who informed that under the Ministry of Education’s directive, such assessment camps would be conducted twice this year. The first phase, he said, would focus on certification and medical assessment of children with autism, low vision, hearing impairment, and other disabilities, with the objective of mainstreaming them in schools as envisaged in the NEP.
Speaking as the special guest, Dr. T. Yetovi Tuccu, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dimapur, encouraged the children to not feel disheartened but to take challenges positively. He reminded parents and teachers of their vital role in supporting children with disabilities, mentioning that every child is unique and has potential that must be nurtured. He also highlighted the various provisions under Samagra Shiksha such as aids, appliances, transport, stipend for girls, and accessibility support, while urging stakeholders to strengthen services further.
The programme also featured a special song presentation by Kekhriengunuo. Following the formal session, a medical assessment camp for children with special needs was conducted.