PRASHAST App: A Guide to Early Disability Screening in Schools
Summary
The Indian government has launched the PRASHAST mobile app to help schools conduct preliminary screening for 21 recognised disabilities. Here’s what parents and students should know about this tool for inclusive education.
Introduction to the PRASHAST App
The Ministry of Education has introduced a new digital tool called PRASHAST, which stands for 'Pre-Assessment Holistic Screening Tool'. Developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), this mobile application is designed to assist schools in the early identification of potential disabilities in students.
The app is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive education system, as envisioned in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It empowers regular school teachers to play an active role in supporting students with special needs right from the beginning.
What Does the App Do?
The primary function of the PRASHAST app is to provide a comprehensive checklist for school-level screening. This checklist covers the 21 disabilities recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. These include conditions related to vision, hearing, movement, learning, and intellectual development, among others.
Using the app, teachers can observe students and note any specific signs or difficulties they may be facing. Based on these observations, the app generates an automated report. It is important to understand that this is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. It helps in identifying children who may require further evaluation by medical professionals.
How Does the Process Work?
The process is straightforward. A teacher uses the app's checklist to screen students in their class. Once the screening is complete, the app generates a school-level report. This report is then shared with the relevant authorities, such as the school principal and special educators.
The findings can be discussed with parents, and if needed, the child can be referred to medical authorities for a formal assessment. This system helps bridge the gap between the education and health sectors, ensuring that students receive timely support and the necessary certifications for availing government schemes and benefits.
Why is Early Screening Important?
Early identification of disabilities is crucial for a child's development. When a learning or physical challenge is identified early, schools and parents can provide the right kind of support and intervention. This can significantly improve a student's ability to learn and participate in school activities alongside their peers.
The PRASHAST app aims to ensure that no child is left behind due to an unrecognised disability. By facilitating this first level of screening within the school itself, it makes the process accessible and less intimidating for both students and their families.
