DEPwD Signs MoUs with EnableMe Access Association and YUNIKEE to Empower Persons with Disabilities

The primary objective of the MoU between ISLRTC and YUNIKEE is to provide free and accessible skills to the deaf community and their youth.

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) has taken a significant step towards empowering persons with disabilities by signing two important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Under the guidance of Secretary Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, the first MoU was signed between DEPwD and EnableMe Access Association (EMA), and the second between the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Center (ISLRTC) and YUNIKEE.

The MoU with EnableMe Access Association includes the launch of two advanced accessibility training programs aimed at panel accessibility auditors and engineers of the Central Public Works Department. The main objectives of this agreement are to provide training on Universal Design using Indian accessibility standards, create integrated tools for disseminating knowledge of these standards, provide joint training for various groups identified by DEPwD, develop a software tool for accessibility education, support the Accessible India Campaign 2.0, and assist DEPwD in addressing policies that undermine the RPwD Act-2016 and other mandatory guidelines.

The primary objective of the MoU between ISLRTC and YUNIKEE is to provide free and accessible skills to the deaf community and their youth. This skill knowledge will enable deaf youth to advance their careers, secure high-quality jobs, receive promotions, pursue their passions, earn a living through freelancing, and become self-reliant in terms of livelihood.

Joint Secretary Shri Rajiv Sharma, Director Honnareddy N, YUNIKEE's Chaitanya Kothapalli, EnableMe Access Association Chairman Peter Gibson, and Co-Founder and Director Anubha Singhal were present during the signing of the MoUs.

With these two significant agreements, DEPwD has taken another important step towards creating an inclusive and empowering environment for persons with disabilities. The department aims to provide equal opportunities in education, employment, and social life, enabling persons with disabilities to become self-reliant and empowered citizens.