New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced new guidelines to improve facilities for Children with Special Needs (CwSN) in schools. This update addresses requests from schools and discussions among stakeholders about optimizing provisions for these students.
The new guidelines replace the previous circular (No. 05/2023, dated 06-03-2023). According to the updated notice, all CBSE-affiliated schools and those seeking affiliation must adhere to the revised standards outlined in Annexure A.
Key updates include:
Ramps and Accessibility: Schools must have proper ramps on the ground floor to ensure barrier-free access. Facilities should include ramps in toilets and at entry/exit points for wheelchair users, along with auditory signals in elevators and other necessary infrastructure.
Specialized Toilets: Schools must provide separate, CwSN-compliant toilets for boys and girls. These should be spacious enough to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers and be located on the ground floor or any floor where CwSN classes are held.
Affiliation Requirements: When applying for or renewing affiliation, schools must specify the floors used for CwSN classes or practicals.
Pathways and Flooring: Approaches to the school should have well-maintained, leveled surfaces. Paved flooring must be firm, even, and slip-resistant. Any raised paths should include drop kerbs for wheelchair access.
Walkway Design: The route from the gate to buildings, playgrounds, and toilets must be clear and regularly maintained. Main entrances and doorways should be 1500-1800 mm wide, while other doors must be at least 900 mm wide. Sharp turns and obstructions in walkways should be avoided. Handrails must be installed at dangerous points, and guard rails are required where there is a sudden change in level.
Safety Features: Handrails should be rounded or bent downwards to prevent injuries. Steps must have equal height and width (riser and tread). Bright, contrast-colored tactile pavers (preferably yellow) should mark changes in slope, the beginning and end of stairs, and turnings. All floors should have a non-slip finish, avoiding loose gravel or cobblestones.
These updated guidelines are designed to ensure that schools provide equitable and accessible educational opportunities for all students, including those with special needs.