Odisha’s Cuttack is set to host India’s first international university for the blind, marking a significant step in inclusive education. A central government team recently visited the state and identified a 40-acre site near Baranga in Cuttack district for the institute’s establishment.
Cuttack Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde emphasized the strategic location of the site on the Cuttack-Khordha periphery, ensuring easy accessibility for staff and students. Given its national importance, the government has expressed interest in naming the university after Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi, a renowned blind poet and 19th-century social reformer from Odisha.
Education & Vocational Training for the Visually Impaired
The university will cater to blind students from India and abroad, offering:
- General education from Class IX onwards
- Vocational courses, including acupuncture and physiotherapy
- A Centre of Excellence focused on technology for visually impaired individuals
Priyanshu Khamari, a visually impaired student from Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating that it would significantly contribute to their education and development.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities & Global Collaboration
The institute will feature: - Accessible residential facilities
- An advanced digital lab to enhance learning experiences
International collaboration, including discussions with Japan’s University of Tsukuba, renowned for its expertise in special education.
Addressing a National Need
India has over 50 lakh blind individuals, with Odisha alone home to more than 5.21 lakh, including 2 lakh young people. Recognizing the need for specialized education and skill development, Odisha is taking a pioneering step by establishing this historic institution.
