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Oxford Scholar Praises India's Inclusive Education Model at UN Human Rights Council

At the UN Human Rights Council, Oxford student Jan Hubel presented India's National Education Policy 2020 as a strong framework for inclusive education. He emphasized the policy's shift from rigid exams to flexible, learner-centered pathways to include millions of students with special needs. Hubel specifically highlighted the holistic model of the Akshar Foundation, which integrates academics with health and psychosocial support in government schools. He concluded by urging global support for such skills-based public education systems to advance the rights and opportunities of children with disabilities.

Key Points: India's NEP 2020 Inclusive Education Lauded at UNHRC by Oxford Student

  • NEP 2020's vision for universal access
  • Competency-based over exam-focused systems
  • Integration of academic learning with health and community support
  • Importance of early vocational skills training
2 min read

Oxford student highlights India's inclusive education model at UNHRC

An Oxford student highlights India's NEP 2020 and Akshar Foundation's work as a model for inclusive, skills-based education for children with disabilities at the UNHRC.

"Inclusive education is essential for realising the rights of persons with disabilities - Jan Hubel"

Geneva, March 6

India's vision for inclusive education under the National Education Policy 2020 was highlighted during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva by Jan Hubel, a Luxembourg national and master's student of International Development at the University of Oxford.

Speaking during an intervention at the Council, Hubel emphasised that inclusive education is essential for realising the rights of persons with disabilities and noted that India's NEP 2020 outlines a strong vision for universal access to education and flexible, learner-centred learning pathways supported by assistive technologies.

He said the policy recognises that rigid, exam-focused education systems often exclude learners with diverse needs and promotes competency-based approaches to include India's estimated 2.1 million students with special needs in mainstream public education.

Hubel also highlighted the work of Akshar Foundation, which partners with government schools in India to strengthen holistic education models integrating academic learning with health support, psychosocial care and community engagement.

According to him, such schools create safe environments where children with disabilities are supported not only to learn but also to thrive.

He further stressed the importance of providing all students access to skills and vocational training, noting that early exposure to livelihood-oriented skills builds confidence, independence and smoother transitions from education to employment and social participation.

Hubel called on the Council to recognise and support holistic, inclusive and skills-based public education systems as essential to advancing the rights, autonomy and future opportunities of children with disabilities.

In 2023, Hubel completed the Oxford Internship Programme with the Akshar Foundation, where he worked in government schools to implement the foundation's Indian Education Model aligned with NEP 2020. He later taught in Hong Kong and delivered lectures at Banasthali Vidyapith in Rajasthan.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to hear, but let's be real. The vision on paper is one thing, but the ground reality in most government schools is different. We need more than just policy; we need proper funding, trained teachers, and infrastructure. Hope this international spotlight pushes for faster action.
A
Akshay W
The holistic model mentioned, integrating health and community support, is brilliant. In India, a child's education is deeply connected to their family and community environment. Addressing those aspects is crucial for true inclusion. Kudos to Akshar Foundation for their work!
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked in the development sector, it's impressive to see a foreign student so deeply engaged with the Indian education model. His firsthand experience in Rajasthan schools adds real credibility to his advocacy at the UN. A great example of global partnership.
K
Karthik V
The emphasis on vocational training from an early age is a game-changer. Not every child is meant for traditional academics. Building confidence and practical skills can transform lives and make education truly meaningful for millions. Hope this gets scaled up across all states.
M
Meera T
It's heartening to see the focus on children with disabilities. For too long, they have been sidelined. A flexible, learner-centred pathway with assistive tech can unlock so much potential. As a parent, I truly hope this becomes the norm in every school soon. 🙏

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