Accessibility and Mobility Issues of Students with Disabilities in Educational Institutions with Heritage Buildings: A Case Study of Arts College, Osmania University, Hyderabad

Abstract

Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD Act) and National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 both promote accessibility, a barrier-free environment, quality-based and inclusive education with respect to education of students with disability. However, Heritage/Historical Building Preservation laws pose a unique challenge in implementing a disabled-friendly environment in educational institutions housed in historical buildings. The article examines the accessibility and mobility issues faced by students with Disability at Arts College and advocates for the adoption of legislation and policies that are accommodating and approachable to people with disabilities, especially in educational institutions operated in historic buildings. The article therefore calls for the inclusion of a special clause or the modification of current legislation in the Ancient Monument Preservation Act to make educational institutions accessible and barrier-free. A qualitative methodology was adopted for the study. Empirical data gathered from both primary and secondary sources are analyzed through a case study. A purposive sampling technique is employed in the selection of respondents. The study’s findings put forth the experiences and the challenges faced by people with disabilities pursuing higher education or working in the historic building Arts College, Osmania University, and the legal barriers preventing management efforts in making the university a disabled friendly space.  

Keywords: Inclusive Education, Accessibility, Heritage buildings, Disability Rights, Disability Policies, Heritage Building Conservation and Preservation Policies.