Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025 with a significant event focused on fostering an inclusive and accessible society. The program, held on December 3 at the university's M.A. Ansari Auditorium, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to advocate for equal opportunities and collective action.
A Collective Call for an Inclusive Society
The event was organized by the Dr. Zakir Husain Memorial Welfare Society in collaboration with several prominent organizations: the New Socio-Economic Research and Development Foundation (NSERD), Proactive Foundation, Human Welfare Foundation, and Calyx Interio. It successfully gathered academicians, para-athletes, policymakers, special educators, media professionals, parents, and students under one roof.
The chief guest for the occasion was Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar of Jamia Millia Islamia and Vice-President of the Dr. Zakir Husain Memorial Welfare Society. He delivered a compelling address on the theme 'A Call for Collective Responsibility and Inclusive Growth'.
Prof. Rizvi emphasized that this day is far more than a calendar event; it is a crucial reminder of the moral, social, and institutional duty to build a barrier-free and empathetic world. He highlighted the foundational role of parents, stating that their acceptance and belief in their child's abilities are the first steps toward true empowerment.
"Inclusion cannot be achieved by a single group," Prof. Rizvi asserted, underscoring the need for a collaborative effort involving educators, policymakers, NGOs, and the wider community. He passionately argued that individuals with disabilities possess immense potential and can excel in any field when provided with the right environment and encouragement. His core message was a powerful directive to society: focus on ability, not disability, and celebrate contributions over limitations.
Vibrant Performances and Honouring Resilience
The event was brought to life by a series of energetic performances by children and youth. The lineup included:
- The Jamia Tarana
- Group dances by Junior and Senior categories
- A collaborative dance by the NSERD Foundation
- Solo song and dance performances
- A musical skit addressing mobile addiction
- A powerful Inclusion-themed finale by the Senior Class
A poignant moment came at the ceremony's conclusion, as participants and the audience joined together for the National Anthem performed in Sign Language, a profound symbol of unity and true inclusion.
A key segment of the program was the felicitation of eminent achievers who have broken barriers and serve as inspirations. The dignitaries honoured were:
- Tasneem Fatima, Para-Athlete & President, Delhi State Wheelchair Basketball Association
- Faisal Ashraf Nomani, Helen Keller Awardee & Inclusion Professional
- Munna Khalid, International Para Badminton Player, World Rank 9
- Iqbal Ahmad, Assistant Commissioner, Indian Revenue Service (IT)
Their stories of resilience deeply moved the audience and powerfully reinforced the day's central message of empowerment and possibility.
Building a Barrier-Free Future Together
At the outset, Prof. Mohammad Ghazi Shahnawaz, General Secretary, and Dr. Mohd. Faijullah Khan, Secretary of the Dr. Zakir Husain Memorial Welfare Society, welcomed the chief guest and other dignitaries. In his welcome address, Prof. Shahnawaz echoed the central theme, stressing the critical importance of creating a barrier-free society through the active participation of families, institutions, and all community stakeholders.
The event at Jamia Millia Islamia served as a vibrant platform for dialogue, celebration, and a renewed commitment. It successfully translated the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities into local action, reminding everyone that building an inclusive world is a shared responsibility that begins with recognition, support, and collective effort.
