Australian Delegation appreciates India's efforts in disability sector

Melbourne University has been identified as an agency for undertaking certain specific activities under the ambit of the MoU.

A five-member Australian Delegation headed by Mr. Duncan Maskell, Vice-Chancellor, University of Melbourne met the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot in New Delhi today to discuss the issues relating to the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two countries in November last year for cooperation in the disability sector. The discussions centered around undertaking various activities under the MoU such as co-curriculum designing of the Community Based Inclusive Development program, leadership training, and research in the disability sector. Melbourne University has been identified as an agency for undertaking certain specific activities under the ambit of the MoU.

The Minister expressed his desire to understand the experience of the Australian side for the empowerment of persons with disabilities especially in the area of early intervention, community participation, etc. The Australian side appreciated the efforts of the Government of India in the disability sector and was hopeful that the activities under the MoU will provide scope for learning for both the sides.

Ms. Shakuntala Gamlin, Secretary, DEPwD and Dr. Prabodh Seth, Joint Secretary, DEPwD were also present during the discussions with the Australian side. Representatives from Australian side included Prof. Shitij Kapur, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Melbourne, Prof Craig Jeffrey, Director and CEO, Australia India Institute, Prof Muthupandian Ashok Kumar, Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Timothy Kendall, Counsellor, Australian High Commission, Delhi and Mr. Nathan Grills, Assoc. Prof, Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne.

(With Inputs from PIB)