Members of the NGO partner Prodigals’ Home, Dimapur gearing up for DREAM Project, led by its Director, K Ela.
Kohima, May 3 (MExN): Disability Research, Empowerment and Accessibility Mission (DREAM Nagaland), a pioneering initiative was launched by the Directorate of Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to address the systemic barriers faced by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and to lay the groundwork for inclusive, data-driven skill development and employment programs across the state.
This initiative aims to understand the gap between existing training programs and the real needs of PwDs, ensuring that skill-building efforts align with job market demands and self-employment opportunities.
NagaEd is supporting the department as a research and implementation partner, bringing its expertise in education and inclusive training solutions, stated an update issued by NagaEd.
DREAM Nagaland is a platform for listening to the voices of PwDs across 16 districts. Through surveys and interviews, the project will capture valuable insights on the barriers PwDs face in employment, education, and entrepreneurship. The findings will guide the development of inclusive skill training programs and policy recommendations to foster economic inclusion.
“Skills are the foundation of opportunity. When we invest in the right training, we don’t just change lives—we strengthen entire communities,” said Savio Visa, Director, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, emphasising the government’s commitment to inclusive skilling initiatives.
Despite various national and state-level schemes, access to education, employment and support services for PwDs in Nagaland remains limited, especially in rural and remote communities.
DREAM Nagaland seeks to bridge these gaps by gathering firsthand insights directly from PwDs through structured surveys and interviews across 16 districts of the state. By identifying gaps in access to existing government programs, the initiative will also provide recommendations to improve policy implementation and outreach.
“We need people from all walks of life to participate in this survey to ensure that research leads to real impact. This is about creating opportunities for every individual to thrive. If you have a disability, care for someone who does, or have a friend who is disabled, please take part in this groundbreaking survey,” said Kevisato Sanyü, Founder of NagaEd.
DREAM Nagaland is built on a collaborative model that brings together government departments, local NGOs, community leaders, and people with lived experience of disability. The project will culminate in a comprehensive report, stakeholder consultations, and policy dialogues to ensure findings are validated and translated into actionable reforms.
“Inclusion is not about pulling others in, it’s about removing what keeps them out. DREAM is for ‘Safety’, ‘Accessibility’, ‘Belonging’, ‘Impact’, ‘Visibility’, ‘Innovation’, ‘Growth’, ‘Community’,” said Vikengunu Fatima Kera, President, Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF).
The initiative aligns with the Government’s broader goal of fostering equity, dignity, and economic participation for all citizens, including those historically excluded from mainstream skill development efforts.
The press release reiterated that the Government of Nagaland is committed to ensuring that PwDs are recognised for their skills, talents, and contributions. DREAM Nagaland is a crucial step in building a stronger, more inclusive workforce, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
“If you are a Person with a Disability or a caregiver, your experiences can help shape a more inclusive future for Nagaland. Help us understand your challenges, needs, and aspirations by taking part in the DREAM Nagaland survey.” Fill out the survey at www.dreamnagaland.com
