Fostering Inclusion: Unveiling the 10th National Conference on Disability

We are excited to announce the upcoming 10th National Conference on Disability, a platform dedicated to advancing the cause of inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability for persons with disabilities (PwDs). Organized by Sarthak Educational Trust and the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), this conference promises to be a catalyst for change.

The theme of this year's conference is "Glocal Partnerships (GPS) - Paving the way for an Inclusive, Accessible, and Sustainable World." This theme underscores the importance of both local and global collaborations in creating a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can thrive.

Throughout the two-day event, attendees will engage in meaningful discussions, participate in skill showcases, and witness spirited skill competitions in the North Zone Abilympics. The conference will delve into various crucial topics, including skill development, financial empowerment, technology's role in inclusion, government initiatives, media representation, and the power of collaborations.

The conference is not just a platform for dialogue; it's a call to action. By fostering collaborations, sharing best practices, and raising awareness, the event aims to drive tangible change in the disability sector. With panel discussions led by experts, interactive sessions, and opportunities for networking, the conference provides a space for diverse stakeholders to come together and contribute to a more inclusive future.

The 10th National Conference on Disability is a rallying point for government representatives, corporate leaders, educators, media professionals, NGOs, startups, students, and individuals passionate about disability inclusion. Join us in this transformative journey to empower, inspire, and pave the way for a world where every person's potential can be realized.

Stay tuned for more updates, speaker announcements, and insights as we count down to this inspiring event. Together, let's empower inclusion and build a future that embraces diversity and accessibility.

To register for our upcoming event, the 10th National Conference on Disability (NCD) in 2023, please visit: https://sarthakindia.org/NCD#9b

Disability Awareness

Introduction

In a world that constantly evolves, our understanding of diversity and inclusion must evolve as well. One aspect of diversity often overlooked is disability. It's not just a medical condition but a facet of human existence, and awareness plays a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive society. Disability awareness goes beyond merely acknowledging the existence of disabilities; it involves understanding, empathy, and action. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of disability awareness and how it can lead to a more equitable and inclusive world for all.

Understanding Disability

Before delving into the significance of disability awareness, it's essential to understand what disability encompasses. Disabilities can be physical, sensory, intellectual, or developmental. They may be visible or hidden, permanent or temporary. Disabilities affect people of all ages, races, genders, and backgrounds, making it a vital aspect of diversity.

Why Disability Awareness Matters?

1.Promoting Inclusivity: Disability awareness fosters inclusivity by recognizing that every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the right to participate fully in society. It challenges the barriers that limit access to education, employment, healthcare, and other essential services.

2.Challenging Stereotypes: Stereotypes and misconceptions about disability are pervasive and harmful. Awareness campaigns can challenge these stereotypes, portraying individuals with disabilities as capable, talented, and valuable contributors to society.

3.Empathy and Understanding: When people are educated about disabilities, they develop empathy and understanding. They learn to appreciate the daily challenges individuals with disabilities face and the strength required to overcome them.

4.Legal and Social Change: Disability awareness can drive legal and social change. It has played a significant role in the development of disability rights legislation worldwide, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States.

5.Enhancing Workplace Diversity: Employers benefit from disability awareness by creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces. They can tap into a broader talent pool and foster innovation through the inclusion of diverse perspectives.

How to Raise Disability Awareness?

1.Education: Encourage schools to include disability awareness programs in their curriculum. Teach students about different types of disabilities, their challenges, and how to be inclusive.

2.Accessibility: Advocate for accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital platforms. When environments are more accessible, it benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities.

3.Media Representation: Promote positive and accurate portrayals of individuals with disabilities in the media. Encourage content creators to include disabled characters played by disabled actors.

4.Support Disability Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that support individuals with disabilities. These organizations often provide crucial services and resources.

5.Engage in Conversations: Don't shy away from conversations about disability. Engage with individuals who have disabilities, ask questions, and listen to their experiences.

Conclusion

Disability awareness is not a one-time effort; it's an ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society. By understanding the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, dispelling stereotypes, and taking concrete actions to promote inclusion, we can create a world where everyone's abilities are recognized and valued. It's time to break down the barriers that hold back progress and build a future where diversity, in all its forms, is celebrated.

Barrier-free access to education for special children- What the National Education Policy says

Introduction-

According to the latest provision made in the New Education Policy (NEP) in 2020, access to special education for children with disabilities is made important and necessary in all schools as well as universities around the country. The policy lays emphasis on imparting knowledge and creating new measures and techniques to teach children with specific disabilities so as to provide barrier-free education to them. But do you know the significance of this new amendment and the importance of special education in the contemporary world? Even if you don’t, this article will definitely make you aware of it.

Need for Special Education:

The present statistics suggest that there are one billion children living with a disability worldwide which is around 15% of the entire world’s population. And taking into account the 2019 ‘State of the Education Report for India: Children with Disabilities, there are 78,64,636 children experiencing some form of disability in India constituting 2.2 % of the total population of children in the country. Among the PwD age group of 15 years & above, only 19.3% had a secondary level of education and from the age of 3 to 35, only 10% went to the preschool intervention program.

Image credit Hindustan Times

The WHO had also estimated that in some countries including India, being disabled more than doubles the chance of never enrolling in school. One in three out-of-school children is known to have a disability and it is very disappointing to see a large number of dropouts of students with disabilities because of various reasons like inaccessibility, lack of required resources, and social discrimination.

These studies highlight the major concerns regarding the education of children with disabilities and this clearly signifies the importance of introducing a special measure to educate the population of specially-abled children that constitutes a significant number in society and this makes it rather a need to make them well-educated. This also increases the importance of learning the Sign language along with basic subjects to be able to communicate better and ultimately help them to be well educated and work in favor of their personal growth as well as for the betterment of the society.

Some important pivots of the policy-

1.     Gender equality, equity, and inclusion

2.     Specifically trained teachers

3.     Barrier-free access to education to everyone

4.     More accessible resources

5.     Introducing new techniques and measures to impart knowledge

6.     Better security measures and new assessment criteria

7.     Comfort and ease of learning

8.    Self-paced, flexible curriculum to harness their talents and support their special needs.

9.    Providing equitable access to higher learning opportunities

10. Provision of resources, funds, and the tools to make all aspects of education and school activities accessible.

Measures taken in the direction-

The NEP 2020, which has been approved by the Union Cabinet this year, also takes into consideration several important dimensions of the RPWD Act 2016 that were earlier neglected. ‘The Inclusive Education as a system of education is stressed upon wherein students with and without disabilities learn together.’ The main goal of this policy is to ensure universal access to high-quality education even for children with special needs or Divyang by providing them special attention and priority and giving them equal opportunities and quality education as any other child. The foundation of the act is to bridge the gap between various groups of people and communities and strengthen existing measures. 

Talking about the tools-

In order to make this new addition to the NEP possible, certain new technologies and tools have been designed. Assistive devices, language appropriate teaching-learning materials like textbooks in accessible formats such as large print and Braille are also made available to these children. This policy helps in identifying the unique capabilities of each student and promotes their holistic development in both academic and non-academic spheres.

Appointment of Special Educators

Under the NEP 2020, various schools and universities appoint special teachers who are trained to teach such students using the resources provided by the government. Separate funds are also generated to make the environment of the teaching institutes favorable and to cater to the educational needs of students with severe or multiple disabilities. The assessment of these individuals had also been on a much different level including new guidelines so as to provide them equitable access to higher education. Even a certain percentage of reservations is there in various fields and institutes for the specially-abled. Apart from imparting theoretical knowledge, it is also ensured that these children get equal exposure and convenience to have practical knowledge and involve in extracurricular activities and sports that along with helping them to learn and grow, also spreads awareness about the issue and make other people empathize and understand the importance of treating everyone equally.

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Programmes are also being offered by the National Institute of Open Schooling (MIOS) and Special Education Zones (SEZs) to meet the learning needs of children with benchmark disabilities, who are unable to attend a physical school daily.

The recent changes in the policy also takes into consideration the dropout rates and also address children in vulnerable situations like victims of trafficking or child beggars and orphans in addition to those with disabilities, making it easier and more accessible for them to get a proper education.

Various officials like Arman Ali, Executive Director,  NCPEDP emphasized the education of such children and urged them to include them in regular schooling. The execution and implementation of the provisions in the NEP are monitored by authorities and NGOs who are working to safeguard disability rights.

Conclusion-

The awareness of the importance of special education and the ways to teach children with specific disabilities had become an important part of the education system and programs. These reforms are sure to help children with disabilities and increase access to quality education, employment, health, and all the other services and help in making them aware of their basic rights and make their life better. The importance of special education lies in changing the mindset of people and empowering the specially-abled individuals and those from socio-economic disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly including females and transgender individuals or people from Scheduled castes and tribes and other minorities, and to improve their position as independent and educated people than just a secluded part of the society. The NEP, to a great extent, has been efficient in recognizing the challenges faced by certain groups in society and inculcating knowledge in them and better allocation of resources by implementing effective measures.

To know more about Government schemes & policies for Children with special needs download an app by Sarthak Educational Trust - CapSarathi - One stop solution for disability-related information.

 

Correct Disability Language- Use the right terminology for People with disabilities

 Introduction

Do you know what to say when someone with a disability asks you to use the correct terminology? Do you know how to talk about their disability in general? If not, then this article is for you.

What is Disability?

The term “disability” has been a part of human cultural consciousness for centuries. However, its meaning has changed over time and become more complex than what it used to be.

Disability is not just a medical condition or physical impairment. It also involves social, cultural, and economic factors that affect the ability of an individual to interact with others in society. Disability is therefore not only about physical limitations but also about social barriers created by ableism (discrimination against people with disabilities). This means that when you talk about disability language there are different ways to use the terminology depending on whether you're writing for an academic audience or speaking directly with someone who knows nothing about this topic at all!

How to use disability language:

People with disabilities are all around us. You may not know it, but you probably use the term "disabled people" every day. But this is wrong! You should be using words like "people with hearing impairment," or even better yet: "hearing impaired."

Another common mistake is to use the word wheelchair user instead of a paraplegic or quadriplegic person. How about someone who uses a cane or crutch? Or perhaps someone who has multiple sclerosis? The correct terminology for these individuals is clearly suggested by their disability type: “strabismus patient” instead of “cross-eyed person”; “multiple sclerosis patients” instead of “mugger's disease victim (and yes there was one such thing).

The correct terminology is not only respectful but it also removes the stigma of being a "disabled person." This is important because many people with disabilities do not want to be identified as such, and they don't think it's right for others to call them “disabled.”

Disability-friendly words:

This is the most important thing you can do to make sure your disability-friendly language is correct.

      ·       People-first language: You should use “people with disabilities” rather than “disabled people.”

·       Person with a disability: Use this phrase when referring to someone who has a physical or mental impairment that affects their ability to carry out daily activities, such as walking or hearing. These individuals are often called “people with disabilities” as they do not have any other special qualities (such as being deaf) that make them in need of support services based on their physical limitations alone.

·    Person with a hearing impairment: If there is no other way for you to communicate without speaking directly into another person's ear, then it makes sense for them - especially if those around them don't speak up - but remember: never assume anything about how much time must be spent talking softly into each other's ears when interacting together!* Person whose mobility impairment prevents him/her from leaving home without assistance; who relies on help from others if he/she does go outside because he/she cannot get around on his own; etc.). Use this term only if appropriate context exists where both parties understand what each other means exactly."

Words that are often used but are inappropriate:

The following words are often used but are inappropriate:

●      Disabled. This term should never be used to refer to people with disabilities unless they are in a wheelchair or have an obvious disability that is visible. Instead, use the word “handicapped” when referring to people who are disabled due to some type of physical difference or impairment that affects their quality of life.

●      Handicapped person/cripple person - These words should only be used by people with actual physical impairments; otherwise, they can be considered offensive and insensitive.

●      Paralyzed (can also mean numb). While paralysation is possible in some instances (for example when someone loses all feeling below their waist), this term is not appropriate for describing someone who has lost some feeling but not all their ability for movement because it suggests that there may still be some function left over after losing everything else!

●      Orthopedically handicapped person- The correct usage is - Person with Locomotor Disability.

●      Deaf- Calling someone deaf or dumb has been criticized for a good reason and you should use words like - Hard of hearing or Person with hearing impairment.

●      Blind - We encourage using words like Visual Impairment or person with Low vision.

●      Mentally retarded - If you’re still using this term, stop it right away, The correct term is a person with- Intellectual Disability.

We can make society disability-friendly by using correct and disability-friendly words.

Because of the importance of using correct and disability-friendly words, you need to be aware of this. When someone says "it's an unfortunate situation," he or she may be referring to someone who has a disability. It is best if you use the right terminology when referring to people with disabilities. If you’re looking for assistive technologies for people with disabilities, Click here.

Conclusion

The right terminology is important in explaining to others how someone with disabilities thinks and feels. It’s also important for people who have disabilities themselves to feel included, because they may not understand why certain words are used or have an alternative term that better describes their experience. When you use the correct disability language, it helps make your point clear and concise so that everyone can understand what you mean quicker!

 

Best Digital Solutions for People with Disabilities

Technology has the potential to make life easier for people with disabilities. Assistive technology is used by people with disabilities to help them perform everyday tasks in their homes and communities. It can include tools that help with everyday needs such as mobility, vision or hearing problems, or even more complex systems such as speech recognition software that allows someone to communicate using only text on a computer screen rather than words being spoken aloud by an operator (who may not be able to hear well).

 

 

Technology offers a great solution to help PwDs gain and keep their independence.

• Connectivity: Technology can help PwDs stay connected with family, friends, and healthcare providers. The internet allows them to communicate with people who are far away from them or who may be in a different time zone. This is especially important for those with physical disabilities who cannot walk or use the phone as easily as others.

• Information access: Technology gives people with disabilities an opportunity for self-determination over what information they want or need at any given time, which allows them more freedom over how they spend their time on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter (for example).

• Daily tasks: Technology allows users who are unable to perform certain tasks on their own (like cooking) to take advantage of assistive technology tools that make these processes easier than ever before! These include voice recognition software like Dragon NaturallySpeaking™ Professional Edition ($299), which assists users by converting spoken words into text files so users can write emails directly into Microsoft Word using only their voice commands; speech synthesisers  which converts written text into synthesised speech format; eye gaze tracking devices like Leap Motion , which allow users' hands-free control movements within 3D space by tracking where each hand point is located relative to other points in contact with surfaces around them."

 Also, Have a look at assistive digital tools for different disabilities-

Assistive tech tools for the blind and visually impaired

● Screen readers that read aloud the content on a computer screen. These can be used by anyone with any             level of vision loss, but they’re most helpful for those who have low levels of vision and need assistance             reading text.

● Screen magnifiers that magnify part or all of a computer screen so you can see it more clearly. They are especially useful if you have trouble focusing on small text or enlarged objects because they allow you to zoom in without having to move your head around as much as reading glasses would do when looking at something close-up like an email message or website article headline.  Screen enlargers which enlarge any given area on the screen up to 200%.  Braille displays (also called tactile printers) which are devices that convert written language into tactile graphics so people who cannot see can still access information through touch instead of sight alone.

Assistive tech tools for deaf and hard of hearing people 

Assistive tech tools for deaf and hard-of-hearing people are available in many forms. From apps that can be used to communicate with the world around you, to devices that help you read, write and speak more efficiently—these tools can make a big difference in how you live your life.

●    Teletypewriters.

●    Voice Carry Over Telephone.

●    IP Relay Services.

●    Video Relay Services.

●    Real-Time Text.

●    Real-Time Captioning. 

Assistive tech tools for mobility-impaired users

● Wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility aids that operate on batteries and have smart features.    

● Voice-to-text technology for people with disabilities that help them guide their aid- just with the voice instructions.

Assistive tech tools for those with developmental disorders

Developmental disorders are a group of conditions that affect the development of children, adolescents and adults. They range from mild to severe and can be caused by various factors including genetic predisposition, brain injury or illness. Some examples of developmental disorders include:

·  Optical character recognition

·  Personal FM listening systems

·  Portable word processors

·  Information/data managers

·  Speech-recognition programs

·  Variable-speed tape recorders 

There are many assistive technology tools, and more are coming 

Assistive technology tools are available to everyone, from the most able-bodied to those with disabilities. Assistive technology can be as simple as a voice-to-text app or as complex as a robotic arm. The most important thing is that it helps you live life more independently and comfortably.

There are many assistive technology options available today: speech recognition software, screen magnification software for reading text online, Braille printing devices for writing documents on paper or screen magnifiers for working with small images (like maps). These tools may seem like luxuries when compared with other types of aids used by people who need help moving around physically but they're actually vital parts of living independently if you want to stay independent over time!

  

Talking about 2 amazing one-size-fit for all digital solutions-

 1. CapSarathi - Mobile App

 

CapSarathi is a joint initiative by Capgemini and Sarthak Educational Trust with an objective to reach every nook and cranny across India and provide information, services and support to people with disability (PwD) at a click.

I. Information-  Such as Government Schemes, Policies & Provisions such as Disability certificate, pension, transport concessions, reservations and others

II. Services- such as Counseling, Guidance, Early Intervention, Education, Skill development, Employment, Career Growth and Career & more

Key Features –

1. Accessible Platform for disability categories

2. Help Desk Support to counsel and guide users over Chat & Calls

3. Feedback mechanism to resolve concerns and queries on a timely basis

4. Support available in 11 languages

Currently, 13,000+ users are taking benefit from it.

We believe that technology can help people with disabilities live more independent and productive lives. There are many assistive technology tools available today, but they’re not always used because of the stigma surrounding disability. The good news is that there are resources out there to help you choose the right one for your needs. If you’re interested in finding out more about these products or getting help with choosing an appropriate device for your situation, Download the CapSarathi app today!

Visit https://sarthakindia.org/Capsarathi.php

Play Store link- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.sarthak_android&hl=en

App Store Link- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/capsarathi/id1544617332

2. RozgarSarathi- Exclusive Job portal for PwDs

 

It’s a unique technology intervention which makes job opportunities for differently-abled people accessible by connecting them with coveted employers across India. 

Features- It provides information about Government and Private Job openings across India for PwDs at a single platform.

• The platform also offers them a customized dashboard to check updates of different jobs that they have applied for.

• Employers can create accounts, post jobs, monitor progress and select skilled workforce using this.

• The platform also provides facilities to conduct job fairs and organize online interviews.

It has 500+ leading employers such as Amazon, Tech Mahindra BigBasket, Vodafone, Eureka Forbes, Hindustan Unilever, HDFC to name a few along with Government job vacancies and 6000+ active PwD users.

Learn More and Register -https://sarthakindia.org/Rozgarsarathi.php

Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired and Hearing Impaired

 

In the present age that we live in, we are encompassed by various technologies which have transformed not only the way we do businesses but how we communicate, transmit and share information as well. It’s the age of the 4th industrial revolution whereby assistive technologies have emerged for the visually impaired and hearing impaired. This has made their lives easier as they can also use the internet to surf the web for information, using tablets, iPhones, iPad and laptops or computers like everyone else in the world. Their lives have been transformed significantly for those who are able to access assistive technology but for some they are still struggling and using the old methods as it is expensive and some countries have just partially accepted it in their countries. The information below discusses in detail assistive technology for the visually impaired and hearing impaired and how it has revolutionized the way they live and their day-to-day routines. 

Assistive technology enables people to live healthy, productive, independent, dignified lives and to participate in education, labour market and civic life.

Manual wheelchairs increase access to education & employment opportunities as it reduces health care costs as there are reduced pressure sores and contractures for the visually impaired and hearing impaired.  It reduces the need for formal health and support services, long term care and the work of care givers. In addition, people who can't access this technology are often excluded, isolated and locked into poverty, thereby increasing the impact of diseases and disability on a person, their family and the society at large.

Assistive technology promotes the health, well-being and socioeconomic benefits through the use of hearing aids by young children leading to improved language skills because children who can't access these earlier face the challenges of having limited opportunities of education and employment presented to them. The use of hearing aids and cochlea implants are designed to hear sounds better and louder enhancing communication and learning skills. In addition, assistive technology aims at working around specific deficits rather than fixing them. It helps people with learning differences to reach their full potential and live satisfying and rewarding lives.

Assistive technology and devices related to vision and hearing have been defined by WHO as devices such as:

•  Prostheses or implants such as cochlear implants or bionic eyes.

•   Mobility aids for example canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, knee scooters, wheel chairs and mobility scooters.

•  Hearing aids for instance analog convert sound waves into electrical signals and then make them louder, usually less expensive and have simple volume controls. Digital hearing aids on the other hand convert sound waves into numerical codes similar to computer aids and then amplify them.

•  Visual aids entail instructional devices which are used in the classroom encouraging learning making it easier and motivating. Materials used include models, charts, film strips, projectors, radio, television and maps.

Moreso, thanks to modern technology, visually impaired persons are able to do a lot of things such as to write documents, browse the internet and send and receive emails. Screen reading software, special talking and Braille devices allow those with no vision to use computers, cellphones, and other electronic devices independently. Cellphones read print documents and describe things making them more clearer for the visually impaired. Moreover, visually impaired use magnification software and devices which allow them to see letters, pictures and other objects without having to struggle or strain their remaining vision. Assistive or adaptive technology is continually evolving and has resulted in the removal of barriers for people with vision loss.

In addition, visually impaired can now do more things that required special software orderliness on iPhones and iPads using special apps such as KNFB reader which takes pictures of print letters and transmits them to the phone which reads it out loud within a matter of seconds. Tablets and iPhones enable the descriptions of colors, shapes, sizes of objects to the visually impaired through the use of TapTapSee app. Be My Eyes connects the visually impaired with a sighted person describing things to them so that they are much clearer to the visually impaired.

Furthermore, assistive technology enhances the visually and hearing impaired to carry out routine tasks at work and at school, it has also enabled them to be more independent at home. They can now read emails, listen to audiobooks, step by step walking to unfamiliar places, record important information and so much more with special standalone devices designed for people with no or low vision. There are also devices such as talking watches, thermometers, scales, blood glucose and blood pressure monitors that help them to live independent and healthy lives. In addition, the above apps such as the TapTapSee are able to be used in the comfort of the homes of visually disables as they are able to see the pictures and indulge in their meaning and story telling at their own pace.

Assistive technologies have been incorporated within the school curriculum in a number of subjects such as math,  social science studies, computers, orientation and mobility, art, music, and physical education. The curriculum enables the use of this technology from a very young age so they can adapt to it as they grow. It gives the visually and hearing impaired the platform for them to grow with it, embrace it and harness it so that they are employable in future. Assistive technology secures the future of the visual ang hearing impaired.

However assistive technology cannot be accessed by every on who is visually and hearing impaired because the ones who need it the most are located within the poor communities of India. They are not able to access the internet, cellphones and computers as they need to be powered by electricity and assistive technology is run through software’s and applications which need to be downloaded and that is costly as well. Moreover, if incorporated properly it could benefit a large part of the population who are visually impaired and hearing impaired. Technology as a whole is meant to boost a person’s life and well being as it is being done by assistive technology.

What should you include? Resume Tips for People with Disabilities

Resumes can be a tough task. A well-crafted resume gives you the opportunity to flex your skills and show off your accomplishments, but given the difficulty that many job seekers have in talking about themselves and showing off their strengths, creating a strong resume can be a challenge. You may be thinking to yourself, how will I stand out from the other applicants? Or, how can I show that I am a good fit for the job?

Some people think that having a disability will prevent them from being hired for jobs. Actually, being disabled might give you an advantage over other jobseekers. If you have a physical, emotional or developmental disability, a resume is the most important tool in finding successful employment. Here are some tips that should help you put together the best resume possible if you have a disability and help you get ready to interview.

As a job seeker with a disability, your resume may be different from the standard resume format most people use. The goal of your resume is to highlight pertinent information powerfully and efficiently. Your disability does not define you, but it should not be ignored. How you address your disability on your resume is up to you, but turning your perceived weaknesses into strengths will impress employers.

There are many ways to structure a resume for candidate with disability.

Make sure that the theme and style of your resume matches the type of position you are applying for. Highlight marketable skills and experience. Each application should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Ask yourself “why is this position important?” That will help you determine which relevant skills and experience you want to focus on in your application. Showcase skills and experience in a way that makes what you bring to an organization standout as unique or different – don’t just repeat what is already on your resume.

Often it feels like the hiring manager is reading hundreds of applications, so the key is to make yours stand out. Create a theme for your resume and application that speaks to your skills and experience in a way that is attractive to the position you are applying for. Explain what makes you want this job and explain why you would be great at it – explain how your goals align with the company’s.

     Do:

• Keep your resume only 2 pages long, not more than that.
• Make use of action words such as Delivered, Achieved, Coordinated.
• Tailor your resume to the specific job advertisement
• Add latest contact information. Do not use an unprofessional email address, include an email with your name.
• Make a section of your soft skills (personality) and your hard skills (technical) separately.
• Always check for corrections before sending.

• Highlight your transferable skills- these are exactly what they sound like: the skills that you use in every job like communication, data analysis, teamwork etc.

   Don’t:

• Use false information.
• Make spelling mistakes
• Provide references unless requested by the recruiter
• Make it too long or detailed like a CV

 

Questions you may have-

Should I disclose my disability on my resume?

People with disabilities have a history of excelling in the workplace. Think of the role carefully. Unless it's directly relevant to the position, leave it off of your resume. However, if the job requires you do so or you believe that some form of accommodation would be useful to perform the task, then yes put it on along with a brief explanation as to what accommodations were needed or used.

Does my disability reduce the chances of my selection?

Hiring is about assessing people, and it's all about the impression you make on the interviewer. Everything else is secondary. A strong resume can help you with screening and study after your resume has been reviewed and screened, you are called for an interview. During the interview, your personality, poise and attitude will be crucial. If you have a physical disability, that’s part of who you are as an applicant, so it isn’t something to hide or ignore. Instead, your resume can demonstrate ways in which your particular abilities and skills address the needs of the employer.

What is the difference between a resume and a CV?

Resume is a short and crisp document having important information about you. Can be used by freshers and all other times when the recruiter does not ask for a CV specifically.
Whereas, Curriculum vitae are generally longer than resumes and hold more Information. Typically, they consist of a number of subheadings relating to duty/responsibility, year, institution/organization, location, achievement/qualifications. Each factor is usually explained in three to five lines.‍ An employer may ask for a CV in the case of some academic professions, in fields like medicine and research, for example.

 

We hope this answers all your questions. Students with disabilities having no work experience can also stand out by showcasing their skills and abilities in a good resume. You may also search for sample resume for person with disabilities online and many of them would be available at a click.