Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)
The Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) event, held on May 16-17, 2024, at the Quadrangle near Ramaiah Institute of Nursing Education and Research, was organized to deepen understanding of the accessibility challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The event featured immersive experiences that simulated the difficulties PWDs encounter, emphasizing the importance of inclusive environments. Organized by the Association of People with Disability (APD) in collaboration with the Centre for Disability Law and Policy (CDLP) at Ramaiah College of Law, the event saw significant contributions from faculty members Mr. Badal Chatterjee and Mr. Pranam Chandrashekhar. The event aimed to help participants experience barriers faced by PWDs, fostering empathy and recruiting volunteers for APD’s Yes to Access initiative. It engaged students, professors, and the general public, with notable participation from Ramaiah Institute of Technology and various other departments.
Key activities included the "Experience Zone" with stations for navigating in wheelchairs, walking with visual impairments, and interviewing with speech and hearing disabilities. Each station facilitated hands-on experiences to raise awareness and promote inclusivity. The event attracted over 500 participants, garnered positive feedback, and successfully highlighted the importance of accessible environments. Participants expressed newfound empathy and understanding, and many showed interest in future volunteering. The event's success in raising awareness and fostering empathy underscores its vital role in building inclusive communities where everyone’s abilities are recognized and valued.
