Every learner matters and matters equally! The concept of equity and accessibility in the education sector is built around this idea.
Equity in education means giving every student a fair chance to succeed. It ensures that students from disadvantaged groups (differently-abled individuals and minorities) get the support they need to learn.
On the other hand, accessibility means making education available to everyone, including those who face physical, social, or economic barriers. Together, these ideas ensure that every learner gets the opportunity to grow and succeed without discrimination.
Acting on this belief, the Indian government is working actively towards making education accessible for everyone. By providing financial aid and implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the government is ensuring no one is left behind.
In this article, let’s gain more clarity and understand the meaning of equity and accessibility in the education sector. Also, we will see how India is moving on the path of inclusion.
What do you mean by equity in education
Equity means that all students get the help and support they need to succeed (irrespective of their background). It is about creating a fair and inclusive learning environment where every child has an equal chance to reach their full potential.
Instead of treating all students the same, equity focuses on giving extra help to those who need it the most so that everyone can achieve similar success.
What are the key aspects of equity in education
One of the major aspects of equity is that schools must ensure that every student gets a good education. No one should be treated unfairly or left behind. Additionally, it aims to:
- Overcome barriers to learning
Some students face challenges like poverty or lack of resources. This makes it hard for them to study. Equity means identifying these problems and finding solutions so all students have the same learning opportunities.
- Personalised support
Not all students learn at the same pace. Some need extra help, while others may advanced materials. Equity ensures that each student gets the right kind of support.
- Inclusive learning environments
Schools should create a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and represented. This will reduce the dropout rate.
Why is equity in education important
Equity prepares students for life. When students receive fair opportunities, they develop skills and knowledge to succeed in the real world. Also, when struggling students get the support they need, they perform better in school and gain a love for learning. This increases student engagement as they feel more motivated.
What do you mean by accessibility in education
Accessibility means making education available for everyone. It ensures that all students can easily access:
- Best educational institutions
- Latest learning materials
- Quality vocational programs
In this way, it makes education fair and inclusive so that every student has a chance to succeed (whether they have a disability or not).
What are some key aspects of accessibility
Education should be available to everyone. It should extend to students with physical, sensory, or learning disabilities. No one should be excluded from learning because of their abilities. In practice, learning materials should be created in a way that supports all students, such as:
- Providing audio versions of textbooks for visually impaired students
- Using sign language for those with learning difficulties.
Additionally, accessibility makes learning flexible. Students should have multiple options, like videos, books, audio lessons, or hands-on activities.
What are the types of accessibility in education
Accessibility can be divided into three types:
| Types of accessibility | Explanation |
| Physical accessibility | ● Schools must have:
○ Ramps ○ Elevators ○ Accessible restrooms ○ Adjustable desks ● This will allow students with physical disabilities to move around easily. |
| Digital accessibility | ● Online learning platforms should include:
○ Screen readers for blind students ○ Captions for deaf students |
| Curriculum accessibility | ● Learning materials should be designed for different learning styles.
● For example, ○ Books should be available in audio format ○ Tests should have multiple ways to answer, like writing, speaking, or using pictures. |
How is India promoting equity and accessibility
The NEP 2020 in India aims to provide equal and inclusive education for all. It consulted over 1,000 institutions to create an inclusive approach that supports:
- Women
- Differently-abled individuals (Divyangs)
- LGBTQ+ communities
- Other socially and economically disadvantaged groups (SEDGs)
Let’s see how NEP 2020 is making the Indian education system more accessible and equal:
Promotes gender inclusion
NEP 2020 promotes girls’ education through programs like:
- Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs)
- Scholarships for single girl children
- Self-defence training
Also, the Gender Inclusion Fund (GIF) provides financial support for free textbooks, uniforms, and school facilities for girls and underprivileged children.
Support for differently-abled (Divyangs)
The policy supports education for children with disabilities. It contains provisions to fund their schooling. Also, it provides learning support like:
- Braille
- Indian Sign Language
- Special assessment systems
LGBTQ+ inclusion
For the first time, NEP 2020 recognises education for transgender students. It is offering 25% reservation in schools. Special schools like Kinnar Vidyalaya and teacher training programs are developed. Some states have even appointed transgender teachers.
Interest-free education loans
In association with leading banks and NBFC s, the government is extending interest-free education loans to marginalised students. Currently, this benefit is available to students whose annual family income does not exceed Rs. 4.5 lakhs.
This subsidy is applicable for loans up to Rs. 10 lakhs. Any amount above this threshold does not qualify for interest subsidy.
Conclusion
Equity and accessibility in education ensure that every student (regardless of background, disability, or financial status) gets a fair chance to succeed. India is on the path of inclusion and making strong efforts through the:
- Launch of NEP 2020
- Introducing gender inclusion programs
- Distribution of scholarships and financial aid
These initiatives allow students to gain the skills and knowledge. They ensure that no learner is left behind. Additionally, the government should try to connect rural students to online marketplaces from where they can buy the latest books, laptops, and learning materials. This will further ensure they do not lag behind.
