India, a rapidly developing country, advancements taking place in each and every field. However, the same can’t be said for differently abled. According to the 2011 Census, out of the differently abled children (5-19 years) attending educational institutions, 57% were male children. Data suggests that more males attended educational institutions than their female counterparts. Out of these, only 9% male children  graduated whereas 38%  children remained illiterate. 16% disabled male population had metric or secondary education but only 6% graduated and/or pursued post graduation. 55% of differently abled females remained illiterate.

Between the female differently abled individuals, 55% are uneducated. 9% of the differently abled female population has matric/ secondary education yet are not graduates. 3% are graduates and above. Around 7.7% between the female disabled educated are graduates.

There are different and simple solutions available for differently abled to study, read, appear for exams and secure job. 

Braille techniques

Braille techniques can be used in reading and writing to help blind or visually-impaired students in their day to day life as well as in educational and professional field.  New assistive computer technology (AT) helps in mobility, hearing and visual aids. Differently abled individuals have obstacles to deal in their everyday life. However, with the technological advancement, online learning has now made it convenient for differently abled to pursue education. 

Assistive technology

United States has a law for assistive technology (AT) to equalize education for all. Assistive technology can be used by wearing a hearing aid, using a prosthetic limb, employing speech-to-text software or various other tools. Assistive technology’s market is huge and untapped due to lack of awareness. Most researchers believe that AT can reduce the inability, inequality and obstacles that differently abled people encounter. 

Central government passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which helps them to have accessible and inclusive services. Children with Down syndrome or Cerebral palsy are unable to possess excellent motor skills due to neurotypical issues. However, with advanced technology, these issues will be resolved, as the people will be equiped with more assistance. 

Internet of Things  

Owning to technological advancement and the array of facilities available, differently abled people are getting a lot of help not just to learn new things, but also with their day to day tasks. With new apps, people are able to use smart phones easily to communicate better and complete daily tasks by themselves. They can easily complete their banking work with latest banking apps. Operations like money transfer, ordering new chequebooks, opening of a new account have become relatively easier. The voice to text feature on smartphones helps people who cannot type. Moreover, customized smartphones are now available to cater to their individual needs. 

Furthermore, differently abled people can now also pursue educational courses online, without visiting the institutes. These courses help to make them ready for a professional career by securing jobs in respectable companies across all fields. Simple digital courses can help them in economic rehabilitation.  One can join courses like Personal Finance, Corporate Finance, Management Accounting, Financial Risk Management, Wealth Management, Digital Photography, Graphic Design, Personal finance, Mobile app development, Cyber Security etc. to achieve the same. With these online courses, one can secure a particular job, while keeping the basic needs in consideration.