Prof. (Dr.) Jayanthi Narayan: An Acclaimed Academician and Advocate for Inclusive Education

Prof. (Dr.) Jayanthi Narayan is a highly respected academician in the field of special education. She is widely recognised for promoting inclusive education and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her remarkable career has spanned decades and significantly impacted national and international education systems.

Academic and Professional Accomplishments

Dr. Narayan has served in various prominent roles, including Deputy Director of the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. She is currently a Visiting Professor at the University of Northampton, UK, where she continues to contribute to advancing inclusive education.

She holds postgraduate degrees from the State University of New York, Geneseo, specialising in Education (learning disabilities and intellectual disabilities), and a Ph.D. She is also a Fulbright Senior Research Fellow, completed a post-doctoral program at Boston College, Massachusetts, and received an honorary doctorate from the University of Northampton.

Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award Recipient

Dr Jayanthi Narayan was awarded the Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award in 2014 for her exceptional contributions to disability rehabilitation. This prestigious honour recognises her tireless work promoting the rights of individuals with disabilities and advancing inclusive education practices.

Advocacy for Inclusive Education and UDL

Dr. Narayan strongly advocates for Universal Design for Learning (UDL), promoting its use as a framework to achieve true inclusion in education. She has consistently emphasised the need to cultivate social empathy and awareness to support individuals with disabilities. Her advocacy was crucial in developing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes inclusive education initiatives in India.

Global Influence

In addition to her work in India, Dr. Narayan has had a substantial impact internationally, collaborating with organisations like UNICEF, UNDP, and WHO. She has led situation analyses on education for children with disabilities in Indonesia, Maldives, China, Bhutan, and Cambodia. Her consultancy and research have shaped global approaches to inclusive education.

Research, Publications, and Mentorship

Dr. Narayan has written training manuals, contributed to books, and published extensively in national and international journals. She is also a course writer and editor for distance education programs. Her mentorship has guided many educators and professionals, leaving a lasting influence on special education.

Commitment to Rural Outreach

In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr. Narayan has worked extensively in rural areas, providing services to children with disabilities and their families, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Prof. Jayanthi Narayan’s legacy as an academician and advocate continues to inspire and influence professionals worldwide. Her dedication to inclusive education and disability rights remains a driving force for change in both policy and practice.