Report on the Dynamics of Disability Certificate Course at
St. Xavier’s College
In a remarkable initiative aimed at promoting equity and understanding within
society, St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad, in collaboration with the Centre for
Disability Research and Technology (CDRT) at Kirori Mal College, Delhi,
introduced a short-term certificate course titled “Dynamics of Disability.” This
course, designed to spread awareness and develop a comprehensive understanding
of disability, was structured into a 30-hour program comprising theory lectures,
field trips, and workshops.
Course Structure:
The course was meticulously crafted to provide students with a holistic
understanding of disability:
Theory Lectures: 10 hours
Field Trips: 10 hours
Workshops: 10 hours
Course Inauguration:
The course was inaugurated on December 6, 2023, in the college board room, with
both in-person and online participants attending the event.
Theory Sessions:
Starting from December 7, the theory lecture was conducted by Dr. Someshwar
Sati from CDRT. Until December 12, students were engaged in lectures by various
highly abled faculties on diverse topics such as Disability and Literature, Cinema,
Media, Social Barriers, Rights, and Laws. These sessions provided a solid
theoretical foundation on the multifaceted aspects of disability.
Field Trips:
A significant component of the course was the field trip to the Blind People’s
Association (BPA) in Ahmedabad. During this visit, students participated in four
practical sessions, including an immersive experience in a dark room, which
helped them gain a practical understanding of the challenges faced by visually
impaired individuals.
Workshops:
On February 29, a team from CDRT arrived in Ahmedabad and conducted a three-
day workshop at St. Xavier’s, which culminated on March 2. These workshops
were designed to offer students a hands-on, practical understanding of various
disabilities. The culmination of the workshop was celebrated on March 3 with
Utkarsh Divas, an event organized by Utkarsh, the disability cell at St. Xavier’s
College.
Student-led Workshops and Certification:
On April 8, the students, divided into two major groups, conducted their own
workshops at the college. These workshops served as a practical application of the
knowledge gained during the course and were a part of their assessment. On April
16, students were awarded certificates for their successful participation and
completion of the course.
The Dynamics of Disability certificate course at St. Xavier’s College was a
comprehensive program that not only spread awareness about disability but also
equipped students with practical knowledge and experience. This initiative stands
as a testament to the college’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable
society.
