The government of the state has notified a new scheme through which persons with intellectual disabilities (PwD) of 15 years of age and above can obtain a Class X equivalence certificate, thus providing an alternative route to education, skill development, and employment.
The scheme formally titled Equivalence Certificate for Class 10 for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities is designed to help PwD attain wage employment or self employment, thereby enabling them to become economically independent and socially included. The same certificate will also enable the beneficiaries to get further education and training in skill development in programmes which require Class X qualification.
In line with the eligibility criteria, applicants must have an IQ of 70 or below and complete three years of structured training under the programme. Without a doubt, candidates have to be residents of Goa for a minimum of five years and be assessed using the Comprehensive Assessment Tool (CAT) for intellectual disabilities.
At the end of the training program, the candidates will be assessed on various parameters such as personal care, communication and interpersonal skills, social and emotional maturity, cognitive abilities, motor skills, and workplace behavior.
Besides that, candidates should obtain at least 80 percent marks in the final evaluation to be granted the Class X equivalence certificate.
Government officials revealed that this program represents a major step in the right direction, as it acknowledges different learning outcomes and practical skills of persons with intellectual disabilities, rather than a focus on very strict academic standards.
Disability rights activists welcomed the initiative, describing it as a forward, looking policy that links education to employability and the acquisition of real, world skills.
This program is one of many that demonstrate the state government's commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunity.
It is basically aimed at ensuring persons with intellectual disabilities continue to have access to the formal employment market or further education without being hindered by traditional academic barriers.
