New Delhi, March 27 More than 60 visually impaired and low-vision students explored astronomy through touch, sound, and Braille-labelled models at an accessibility-focused event organized by DU's Kirori Mal College on Friday.
The event, "Stars for All," was organized by the college's Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT) in collaboration with the Physics Astronomy Club, with the aim of making astronomy and science learning more inclusive for persons with disabilities (PwD) to mark World Accessibility Day on Friday.
Through tactile models, audio sonification, and Braille-labelled exhibits, participants were introduced to concepts such as the solar system, phases of the moon, and constellations of the night sky.
The exhibition also included 3D tactile models of well-known monuments such as the Golden Temple, Qutub Minar, Gateway of India, and Hawa Mahal, allowing participants to experience aspects of India's cultural heritage through touch.
One of the key attractions was a simulation zone where non-disabled participants were asked to perform everyday activities while simulating different disabilities, including blindness and mobility impairment.
Students who attended the event described the experience as eye-opening and said it helped them better understand the barriers faced by persons with disabilities in daily life.
The organizers said the initiative aligns with a broader campaign by several non-governmental organizations to raise awareness about accessibility and inclusive infrastructure.
Inaugurating the program, KMC principal Dinesh Khattar said, "Accessibility for all is not a luxury or privilege, it is a fundamental right. Kirori Mal College stands for empowering every individual and enabling every individual to lead a life of dignity and respect."
Speaking on the occasion, Prachi Yadav, convenor of KMC Physics Astronomy Club, said the event is an initiative dedicated to making astronomy truly inclusive and experiential.
"Our aim is to break barriers and bring the wonders of the universe within everyone's reach through accessible, engaging, and innovative learning experiences," Yadav said.
In another accessibility-focused initiative on Friday, CDRT also organized a program aimed at expanding career opportunities for persons with disabilities and promoting inclusive employment practices.
Titled "CareerAble: Opportunities Without Barriers," the event was held at the college's Swami Vivekanand Auditorium and brought together students, corporate professionals, academics, and persons with disabilities to discuss pathways to employment and workplace inclusion.
"Over the past five years, CDRT has consistently worked towards building inclusive academic and professional spaces. Advancing this objective, CareerAble focused not only on employment opportunities but also on reshaping perceptions around disability and productivity," said Someshwar Sati, professor and coordinator of CDRT.
He added that the event attempted to tackle a critical question regarding "who is considered 'normal' in the workplace, and how does this idea marginalize people with disabilities".
Addressing the gathering, Sati said that persons dealing with disabilities could perform equally well in educational and professional spaces, if provided equitable access and supportive systems.
He said the program aimed to introduce structured career pathways, provide exposure to real-world corporate experiences, and create opportunities for direct interaction with professionals from the private sector.
The organizers said the event reinforced the need for stronger institutional and corporate collaboration to advance inclusive practices and create meaningful opportunities for disabled individuals.