ENABLE

Pratham Education Foundation

ENABLE

ENABLE fosters equity in early learning for children aged 3–9, especially with disabilities, using inclusive, low-cost Universal Design solutions

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

India

Nonprofit

We are solving the systemic exclusion of children with developmental delays and disabilities from foundational learning in India’s government classrooms and Anganwadi (integrated child development service centers), for children aged 3–9 years. Despite the critical importance of early intervention, India’s public education system continues to adopt a “one-size-fits-all” approach, failing to meet the needs of children with diverse learning profiles. This results in deep learning gaps, social exclusion, and long-term marginalization, especially for children with intersecting vulnerabilities such as poverty, caste, and gender. The scale of the issue is vast: - India has over 2 million children with disabilities (Census 2011), but only ~1% are formally identified in schools, while estimates suggest ~10% may have developmental delays or disabilities (WHO, UDISE+ 2021–22). - In Madhya Pradesh, only 29% of Grade 3 students can read a Grade 2-level text and just 17% can perform basic subtraction (ASER 2023) - figures likely far lower for children with disabilities. The lack of trained personnel, low awareness, and deep-rooted stigma further compound the problem. In some states, there is only 1 special educator for every 10,000 students (UNESCO, 2019). These gaps highlight the urgent need for inclusive, adaptable, system-embedded solutions to make foundational learning equitable for all.

ENABLE is a comprehensive, low-tech, community-rooted solution promoting inclusive education for children with diverse learning needs. It uses an eclectic approach by drawing on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi Grade Multi Level (MGML), Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, and Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) to create adaptable, accessible classrooms in low-resource settings. ENABLE operates through a three-part approach: 1. Inclusive Resource Hubs: Set up at district-level in partnership with the government, these hubs offer rehabilitative therapy, learning support, and caregiver counseling. Each hub supports 40–100+ children and serves as a site for ongoing teacher and caregiver capacity-building. 2. Tools & Curriculum Packages: - Disability Screening Schedule (DSS): Aligned with India’s Aadharshila framework, this simplified tool enables early identification of delays/disabilities. - Learning Continuum Tool: Tracks developmental progress across domains for all learners, including those with disabilities. - Inclusive Curriculum Packages: These low-cost, culturally grounded, multisensory and multimodal learning tools are adapted from existing materials and aligned with national frameworks for seamless implementation. 3. Capacity Building: Anganwadi workers, teachers, and supervisors are trained in inclusive practices, early detection tools, and disability awareness. ENABLE empowers educators, caregivers, and systems to support every child’s right to learn and thrive.

ENABLE supports children aged 3–9 in Anganwadis and government schools, with a focus on those facing learning delays, disabilities, or barriers such as poverty, gender bias, or language differences. It also works with caregivers, educators (Anganwadi workers, teachers), and local government leaders in under-resourced communities. In India’s diverse landscape, children begin their learning journeys at different points—but most teaching assumes a one-size-fits-all approach. With only one special educator per 10,000 children (UNESCO, 2019) and limited training for frontline workers, many children with disabilities are excluded. Classrooms often fail to reflect the needs of non-verbal, neurodiverse, or multilingual children. Disability, when compounded with poverty or gender inequality, deepens the gap. Social stigma further discourages families from seeking support. ENABLE acts as an equalizer by embedding inclusive practices within the public system. It enables early screening, trains educators to recognize developmental delays, and promotes multisensory, child-friendly strategies. Caregivers receive orientation and home-based tools to support learning. Classrooms are transformed with low-cost, culturally responsive, and accessible materials. Government systems are strengthened through training and alignment with national frameworks. By engaging all stakeholders—homes, schools, and communities—ENABLE ensures every child is included, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.