The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced new guidelines to improve the safety, comfort, and accessibility of schools for Children with Special Needs (CWSN). These rules apply to all schools affiliated with CBSE and those seeking affiliation, aiming to make educational environments more inclusive. The full guidelines can be found on the CBSE’s official website at cbse.gov.in.
Key Points of the Revised CBSE Guidelines for CWSN Students:
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- Barrier-Free Access: Schools must build ramps on the ground floor to allow CWSN students easy access to classrooms and other facilities.
- Accessible Bathrooms: Separate bathrooms for boys and girls, designed to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers, should be available on the ground floor or wherever CWSN classes are held.
- Affiliation Requirements: Schools applying for affiliation or an extension must clearly indicate the floors where lessons or practicals for CWSN students will take place.
- Entrance and Pathways: School entrances should have flat, well-maintained surfaces, and pathways leading to buildings, playgrounds, and toilets should be clear and level, ensuring they are easy to navigate.
- Classroom and Restroom Accessibility: Doors to classrooms, restrooms, and other areas should be at least 900mm wide to provide easy access for all students.
- Walkway Safety: Walkways should be free from obstacles like low-hanging branches or signposts, and handrails should be installed at risk points, such as staircases and verandahs, with rounded ends to prevent injuries.
- Tactile Paving: Bright, contrast-colored tactile pavers, preferably yellow, should be used at the start and end of stairways, slopes, and turns to help visually impaired students.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: All floors should have a non-slip finish to prevent accidents. Schools should avoid using loose gravel or cobblestones.
These guidelines demonstrate CBSE’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students with special needs. Schools and stakeholders are encouraged to review the complete guidelines on the official CBSE website.
Good efforts of cbse for students