Prof. (Dr.) Saroj Arya: A Pioneer in Clinical Psychology and Disability Rehabilitation

Prof. (Dr.) Saroj Arya is a distinguished academic and clinical psychologist with decades of experience in special education, intellectual disabilities, and disability rehabilitation. With a career spanning several prestigious institutions, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the education and rehabilitation of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in India.

Academic and Professional Journey

Dr. Saroj Arya has served as the Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Psychology at the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad. She is currently Professor Emeritus in Clinical Psychology at the Institute of Mental Health, Sweekar Academy of Rehabilitation Sciences, Secunderabad. Her educational qualifications include an M.A. in Psychology from Osmania University, an M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Osmania University.

Career Contributions

Dr. Arya’s illustrious career includes roles such as Assistant Research Officer at NIMHANS and Research Officer at the National Institute of Nutrition, where she conducted extensive research in psychology, nutrition, mental health, and disability rehabilitation. She has served in various teaching positions, including Lecturer in Child Psychology at NIEPID and Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology at NIEPID’s regional training centres.

She has mentored countless students and professionals throughout her career, with over 30 years of teaching experience at the PG and M.Phil levels. Dr. Arya has led multi-centric research studies and published over 25 articles in national and international journals. She has also participated in numerous national and international conferences and seminars, sharing her expertise on intellectual disabilities and rehabilitation.

Leadership in Inclusive Education

A strong advocate for inclusive education, Prof. Arya has worked to develop and implement programs that enable individuals with intellectual disabilities to access quality education.

One of her significant contributions is developing and implementing the NIEPID Indian Test of Intelligence, a crucial tool in assessing cognitive abilities in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Professionals widely use this test to diagnose intellectual disabilities and tailor interventions that suit the specific needs of the individual. Prof. Arya has conducted numerous training programs to educate psychologists, educators, and rehabilitation professionals on this test, ensuring its widespread and practical application.

Her role in promoting Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) has been central to her advocacy for equal educational opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities. Dr. Arya’s work has significantly advanced the integration of inclusive practices in academic settings.

Awards and Fellowships

Dr. Arya’s accomplishments have been widely recognised. In 1991, the University of London awarded her the British Technical Cooperation Training Award under the Colombo Plan. She has also received accolades for her research, including the first prize for her article “Is divorce a solution to marital problems?” in the Women’s World Competition 1983.

Her leadership roles include serving as President of the A.P. Association of Clinical Psychologists (1980-1982), Consultant Psychologist for the A.P. Sports Council and other organisations, and Fellow Member of the Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists.

Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award Recipient

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to disability rehabilitation, Dr Saroj Arya was honoured with the prestigious Reeta Peshawaria Oration Award in 2017. This award celebrates her significant achievements in advancing the field of intellectual disabilities and promoting inclusive education and rehabilitation.

Legacy

Prof. Saroj Arya’s contributions to clinical psychology and disability rehabilitation continue to shape the field. Her leadership in developing educational assessments, promoting inclusive practices, and mentoring future generations of professionals has impacted how intellectual disabilities are understood and addressed in India.

Her dedication to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities through research, education, and advocacy makes her one of the most respected figures in special education and disability rehabilitation.