- DIMAPUR — The
DREAM Nagaland (Disability Research, Empowerment and Accessibility Mission)
initiative has successfully concluded its statewide field research phase. The
milestone marked the completion of community-based data collection and
storytelling efforts across all 17 districts of Nagaland, capturing the voices,
needs and lived realities of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and their
caregivers.
- Launched by the Directorate of Employment, Skill Development
and Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with NagaEd, DREAM Nagaland set out with
the goal of building inclusive policy frameworks grounded in evidence and
experience.
Also read: DREAM Nagaland campaign reaches half-way mark
- An update from DREAM Nagaland stated that over the past few
weeks, NagaEd with its partner organizations namely Nagaland State Disability
Forum (NSDF), Prodigals’ Home, Differently Abled People's Organisation Peren
and Mokokchung District Disabled Forum have connected with hundreds of
individuals in both rural and urban communities across 17 districts—conducting
surveys, holding listening sessions and gathering critical data to inform the
next generation of disability-inclusive development programs in the state.
- “This phase of the project has been a powerful reminder that
real inclusion begins with listening. We are grateful to every person who
shared their story and trusted us with their truth,” said Aonok Aier, senior
project manager at NagaEd.
- With the completion of field research, it stated that the
DREAM initiative would now be focused on data analysis and report development
phase. The work would be conducted in close collaboration with the Directorate
of Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and various other partner
organisations.
- The final report would present both quantitative findings
and qualitative insights gathered from communities, offering practical
recommendations for disability-inclusive services, infrastructure, education,
livelihood programs and support systems for caregivers.
- “This is more than just a report. It’s a blueprint for
change. We look forward to reviewing the findings and ensuring that the voices
of persons with disabilities are at the centre of every decision moving
forward,” said Kevisato
