Mr. Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India:

“Education is not just a fundamental right, it is the foundation for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world. It has the power to transform lives, advance human potential, and unlock opportunities for all, especially for children and youth with disabilities who are often left behind. At CBM India, we believe that every child deserves access to quality education that empowers them to thrive and be active participants in their communities.

Inclusive education is about providing access and creating environments that meet every learner’s needs. Through our work, we strive to bridge gaps, partner with schools to create inclusive environments, support children with disabilities in their learning journey, and empower teachers with the tools and training they need to develop methods that reach and engage every student. We envision a future where education is a universal right, not a privilege, and no one is excluded from its transformative power.

On this International Day of Education, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advancing inclusive education and call upon governments, communities, and stakeholders to unite to ensure every child has access to learning opportunities. Together, let us promote equitable and accessible systems, and create environments where education makes it possible for every child to achieve their dreams. By working together, we can build a world where inclusive and equitable quality education drives positive change.”