DREAM Nagaland’s pilot sheds light on PwD employment barriers

KOHIMA, MAY 9 (MExN): DREAM Nagaland (Disability Research, Empowerment, and Accessibility Mission) has successfully completed its pilot phase in Kohima district, marking a significant step towards creating inclusive skill development and employment opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the state.

The pilot was conducted in collaboration with NagaEd and community partners, including the Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF). The initiative gathered valuable data through firsthand stories from PwDs, caregivers, educators, and community leaders across Kohima. The insights gained shed light on both the challenges and aspirations of PwDs in Nagaland.

“We’re hearing directly from people whose voices are rarely part of the planning process. That’s what makes DREAM different—it starts with listening,” said Aonok Aier, Senior Project Manager at NagaEd.

Key insights 
According to a press statement issued by NagaEd, the key findings from the pilot revealed several challenges faced by PwDs in Nagaland. Many PwDs and their families remain unaware of government schemes and how to access them. A significant number of respondents expressed a desire to work but lacked access to relevant training aligned with their interests and local job markets. In addition, infrastructure and transportation challenges continue to limit PwDs' participation in education and employment. Many PwDs voiced aspirations for financial self-reliance through meaningful work, entrepreneurship, or vocational training.

These findings are now shaping the design of a state-wide survey, which is currently live at: https://www.dreamnagaland.com/.

Call to action 
The DREAM team is inviting PwDs, caregivers, and educators from all 17 districts of Nagaland to participate in this landmark survey. The data collected will directly inform future government policies, training programs, and support systems.

“This is an opportunity for every person with a disability—and those who support them—to help build a better, more inclusive future. We need your voice to guide us,” said K Ela, Director, Prodigals’ Home, Dimapur.

What’s next? 
In the coming weeks, the DREAM team will focus on expanding data collection in both rural and urban areas, hosting community meetings, and collaborating with local organizations to ensure accessibility and wide outreach. The final results will contribute to a comprehensive report with policy recommendations for the Government of Nagaland, aimed at enhancing employment, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion for PwDs across the state, the press statement read. 

The partner organizations involved in the survey and their covered districts include: Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF), which is covering Kohima, Kiphire, Zunheboto, Longleng, Phek, Wokha, Tseminyu, Noklak, Mon, Tuensang, Shamator, and Meluri; Prodigals’ Home, covering Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland; Mokokchung District Disabled Forum, covering Mokokchung; and Differently Abled People’s Organization Peren, covering Peren.

To participate or support outreach in your area, visit https://www.dreamnagaland.com/ or contact connect@nagaed.com.