Call for Community Participation as State-wide Survey Launches

Kohima, Nagaland – DREAM Nagaland (Disability Research, Empowerment and Accessibility Mission), has completed its pilot phase in Kohima district, marking a key milestone in the state’s efforts to build inclusive skill development and employment pathways for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

Conducted in collaboration with NagaEd and community partners including Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF), the pilot gathered firsthand stories and survey data from individuals with disabilities, caregivers, educators, and community leaders across Kohima. The findings offer a powerful snapshot of both the challenges and aspirations of PwDs in Nagaland.

“We’re hearing directly from people whose voices are rarely part of the planning process. That’s what makes DREAM different—it starts with listening,” said Aonok Aier, Senior Project Manager at NagaEd.

Key Insights from the Pilot

• Limited awareness: Many PwDs and their families are unaware of existing government schemes or how to access them.

• Skills mismatch: Most respondents expressed a desire to work but lacked access to training aligned with their interests or local job markets.

• Barriers to mobility and access: Physical infrastructure and transportation challenges continue to limit participation in education and employment.

• Strong desire for independence: Many PwDs voiced aspirations for financial self-reliance through meaningful work, entrepreneurship, or vocational training.

These early findings are informing the design of the statewide survey, now live at:
🔗https://www.dreamnagaland.com/

Call to Action: Your Voice Matters

The DREAM team is now inviting PwDs, caregivers, and educators across the 17 districts of Nagaland to take part in this landmark survey. The data gathered will directly inform future government policy, training programs, and support systems.

“This is an opportunity for every person with a disability—and those who support them—to help build a better, more inclusive future. We need your voice to guide us,” Smti. K. Ela, Director, Prodigals’ Home, Dimapur

What’s Next

Over the coming weeks, the DREAM team will be:

• Expanding data collection across rural and urban areas
  
• Hosting community meetings and stakeholder consultations
  
• Collaborating with local organisations to ensure accessibility and reach
  

The final findings will contribute to a comprehensive report and policy recommendations for the Government of Nagaland, aimed at increasing employment, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion for PwDs across the state.

Here is a list of all partner organisations who are working collaboratively on data collection and the districts each organisation is covering:

• Kohima – Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF): Kohima, Kiphire, Zunheboto, Longleng, Phek, Wokha, Tseminyu, Noklak, Mon, Tuensang, Shamator, Meluri
  
• Prodigals’ Home – Dimapur, Chumukedima, Niuland
• Mokokchung District Disabled Forum – Mokokchung
• Differently Abled People’s Organization Peren – Peren

To participate or support outreach in your area, visit:
🌐 https://www.dreamnagaland.com/
📧 connect@nagaed.com

About NagaEd

NagaEd is a leading education company that develops innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning experiences. The company specialises in creating interactive and engaging educational content, providing professional development, and supporting institutions in their educational transformation journey.

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