Disability Research, Empowerment, and Accessibility Mission (DREAM Nagaland), a pioneering initiative was launched by the Directorate of Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to address the systemic barriers faced by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). A press release by NagaEd, informed that the initiative will lay the groundwork for inclusive, data-driven skill development and employment programs across the state.
The initiative aims to understand the gap between existing training programs and the real needs of PwDs, ensuring that skill-building efforts align with job market demands and self-employment opportunities. NagaEd will support the department as a research and implementation partner, bringing its expertise in education and inclusive training solutions.
According to the press release, DREAM Nagaland is a platform for listening to the voices of PwDs across 16 districts. Through surveys and interviews, the project will capture valuable insights on the barriers PwDs face in employment, education, and entrepreneurship. The findings will guide the development of inclusive skill training programs and policy recommendations to foster economic inclusion.
“Skills are the foundation of opportunity. When we invest in the right training, we don’t just change lives—we strengthen entire communities,” said Savio Visa, Director, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, emphasising the government’s commitment to inclusive skilling initiatives.
Despite various national and state-level schemes, access to education, employment, and support services for PwDs in Nagaland remains limited, especially in rural and remote communities. DREAM Nagaland seeks to bridge these gaps by gathering firsthand insights directly from PwDs through structured surveys and interviews across 16 districts of the state. By identifying gaps in access to existing government programs, the initiative will also provide recommendations to improve policy implementation and outreach.
“We need people from all walks of life to participate in this survey to ensure that research leads to real impact. This is about creating opportunities for every individual to thrive. If you have a disability, care for someone who does, or have a friend who is disabled, please take part in this groundbreaking survey,” said Kevisato Sanyü, Founder of NagaEd.
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Collaboration for Inclusion
DREAM Nagaland is built on a collaborative model that brings together government departments, local NGOs, community leaders, and people with lived experience of disability. The project will culminate in a comprehensive report, stakeholder consultations, and policy dialogues to ensure findings are validated and translated into actionable reforms.
“Inclusion is not about pulling others in, it’s about removing what keeps them out. DREAM is for ‘Safety’, ‘Accessibility’, ‘Belonging’, ‘Impact’, ‘Visibility’, ‘Innovation’, ‘Growth’, ‘Community’,” said Vikengunu Fatima Kera, President, Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF)
The Initiative aligns with the Government’s broader goal of fostering equity, dignity, and economic participation for all citizens, including those historically excluded from mainstream skill development efforts.
“The Government of Nagaland is committed to ensuring that PwDs are recognised for their skills, talents, and contributions. DREAM Nagaland is a crucial step in building a stronger, more inclusive workforce, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” stated the press release.
About NagaEd
NagaEd is a leading education company that develops innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning experiences. The company specialises in creating interactive and engaging educational content, providing professional development, and supporting institutions in their educational transformation journey.
