Sudha Nambudiri stands as a shining example of how responsible journalism can be a force for positive change. My recent experiences and interactions have underscored the importance of her work in advocating for critical issues, especially when those directly affected may be reluctant to speak out. Sudha's approach to journalism demonstrates a deep understanding of the vulnerabilities that often surround sensitive matters. She takes it upon herself to connect with individuals, reassuring them that their identities will remain protected, while the focus remains on the issues at hand. Her unwavering commitment to this promise is a testament to her professionalism and integrity. The central issue that Sudha is currently pursuing revolves around the protocol for assessing Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) in CBSE students, specifically those in the 10th and 12th grades who require exam accommodations. Several key questions have emerged: The acceptance of government certifications while excluding those from licensed private practitioners has raised concerns. Notably, neither the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 nor the Gazette of 2018 explicitly mentions the invalidity of private certificates. This ambiguity calls for clarification. Addressing potential misuse by private centers or practitioners is a significant aspect. Rather than penalizing all, Sudha advocates for the establishment of regulatory mechanisms, as is already in place in Kerala. This measured approach is crucial in promoting fairness and accountability. The need for clear, specific reasons in cases where the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) rejects a report has been highlighted. Ambiguous explanations such as "refer 2018 Gazette and supporting documents missing" create unnecessary confusion. Sudha emphasizes the importance of transparent communication. The role of the VSMS in assessing SLD requires further clarification to ensure transparency and fairness in the assessment process. Sudha also draws attention to the burden placed on students and their families due to the requirement for annual assessments from the 9th grade onward. This practice is seen as an undue hardship, particularly for students seeking to study subjects outside the prescribed five, considering the already challenging process of having to be classified as "disabled" to do so. The distinction between disability certification for CBSE exam accommodations and the certification for the Unique Disability ID (UDID) is a source of confusion. The redundancy of making students go through the medical council four times for these different certifications requires a streamlined approach. Sudha emphasizes that accommodations for SLD or Autism do not negate the ongoing need for support. Success in Grade 10 indicates that students were able to access their full potential thanks to the accommodations they were eligible for. Sudha's dedication to these issues is commendable, reflecting her commitment to promoting transparency, inclusivity, and equal opportunities in education. Her role as a responsible journalist serves as a prime example of how media can influence positive change, safeguard the rights of vulnerable populations, and ensure that their voices are heard.
