Awareness Walk Highlights Success for Children with Dyslexia

Dyslexia can be understood as a unique way of processing knowledge, according to Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy in India. Speaking at the ‘Walk for Dyslexia 2025’ in New Delhi, Kumar emphasized that early identification and appropriate support can lead children with dyslexia to achieve significant success. The event saw prominent landmarks, including the Rashtrapati Bhawan, illuminated in red to raise awareness about dyslexia, a learning difficulty that impacts reading, writing, and spelling.

The walk, organized by the Changeinkk Foundation, UNESCO MGEIP, Orkids Foundation, and Soch Foundation, aimed to highlight the importance of understanding dyslexia, especially during October, which is recognized globally as Dyslexia Awareness Month. Kumar pointed out that dyslexia is one of the most common yet often misunderstood learning differences affecting children.

“Every child learns differently. Dyslexia is not a limitation but a different way of understanding and expressing knowledge,” Kumar stated. He reiterated that with the right support and empathy, children with dyslexia can thrive. The event served as a crucial platform for promoting awareness, compassion, and inclusion for those affected by specific learning disabilities (SLDs).

Kumar highlighted the role of PRASHAST 2.0, a mobile app-based screening tool developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). This tool aids schools in early identification of disabilities, including dyslexia. He noted that timely detection, paired with increased awareness among educators, parents, and the broader community, can significantly improve the educational experiences of children with dyslexia.

The Department of School Education and Literacy, as part of the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, has initiated various measures to enhance early screening and support for children with SLDs. These measures include implementing PRASHAST 2.0 and integrating dedicated modules on inclusive education into the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) to better prepare future educators.

Additionally, the government has introduced customized learning aids, such as text-to-speech tools and other assistive devices, tailored to support children with dyslexia. Block-level screening and identification camps are also being conducted across various states and union territories to ensure timely diagnosis and certification.

According to global estimates, it is believed that dyslexia affects approximately one in every five individuals worldwide. In India, government data indicates that around 12.15 percent of all children with special needs enrolled in schools have reported SLDs, which may include dyslexia.

The ‘Walk for Dyslexia 2025’ is part of ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive educational environment, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive, regardless of their learning differences. By raising awareness and promoting understanding, stakeholders hope to create a more compassionate society for individuals with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.