Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University – Pioneering Inclusive Education and Empowerment in Uttar Pradesh
Introduction:
In the heart of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, stands an institution that embodies the principles of inclusive education, rehabilitation, and empowerment — Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU). Established with a vision to provide quality education to persons with disabilities while catering to mainstream students, this university is a beacon of social justice, academic excellence, and community engagement. With cutting-edge infrastructure, a diverse range of academic programs, and a nurturing campus environment, DSMNRU is steadily building a reputation as a progressive public university in India.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, detailing its history, academics, affiliations, research, facilities, and achievements.
1. Establishment and Historical Overview
- Established: 2008
- Founder: Government of Uttar Pradesh
- Inaugurated by: Former Chief Minister Mayawati
- Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Named After: Dr. Shakuntala Misra, a visually impaired scholar and social reformer
Vision Behind the Establishment:
The university was established as India’s first exclusive university aimed at integrating inclusive and rehabilitation-focused education. It serves as a landmark initiative to bridge the educational divide for differently-abled students while fostering social responsibility among all.
2. Affiliations and Accreditations
- Affiliated to:
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI)
- Bar Council of India (BCI)
- National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE)
- ISO Certified: Yes
- NAAC Accreditation: Grade “B” (First Cycle)
3. University Vision and Mission
Vision:
To create a world-class inclusive academic institution that promotes excellence in education, rehabilitation, and research for all.
Mission:
- To empower persons with disabilities through education and skill development
- To foster inclusive and participatory teaching methods
- To support rehabilitative research and social innovation
- To produce competent professionals and responsible citizens
4. Academic Schools and Courses Offered
DSMNRU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and diploma courses across multiple disciplines.
Schools of Study:
- School for Disabled Studies and Rehabilitation
- School of Arts and Humanities
- School of Law and Legal Studies
- School of Management and Commerce
- School of Engineering and Technology
- School of Science and Technology
- School of Special Education
- School of Social Sciences
Key Courses Offered:
Undergraduate Programs:
- B.Tech (Computer Science, Electronics, Information Technology)
- B.Com, BBA, BA, B.Sc
- B.Ed (Special Education – Visual Impairment, Hearing Impairment, MR)
- BA-LLB (Integrated Law)
- BCA
Postgraduate Programs:
- MBA, M.Com, MA (English, Political Science, History)
- M.Ed (Special Education)
- LL.M
- M.Sc (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.):
- Offered in disciplines including Law, Commerce, Education, Science, and Special Education
Diploma and Certificate Courses:
- PG Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology
- Certificate in Sign Language
- Short-term skill development courses for PwDs
5. Admissions and Reservation Policy
DSMNRU follows a transparent entrance and merit-based admission process.
- Admissions through:
- University Entrance Test (DSMNRU CET)
- National-level exams (where applicable)
- Reservations:
- As per Government of UP norms, with special provisions for students with disabilities
6. Infrastructure and Campus Facilities
Located on a sprawling 131-acre green campus in Lucknow, DSMNRU offers barrier-free infrastructure catering to the needs of both differently-abled and non-disabled students.
Major Facilities Include:
- Accessible Classrooms and Lecture Halls
- Digital Library with Braille sections and e-resources
- ICT Labs with Assistive Technology
- Auditorium and Seminar Halls
- Hostels for Boys, Girls, and Special Students
- Health Center with Emergency Services
- Cafeteria, ATM, Post Office, and Gymnasium
Rehabilitation-Focused Infrastructure:
- Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Units
- Special Education Resource Rooms
- Sensory Integration Rooms
- Speech Therapy and Audiology Labs
7. Academic Excellence and Learning Environment
DSMNRU maintains high academic standards with an emphasis on inclusive pedagogy and practical learning.
Academic Strengths:
- Qualified and experienced faculty with expertise in disability and rehabilitation studies
- Use of Braille, audio-visual aids, and sign language in teaching
- MOUs with reputed institutions for collaborative programs
- Regular workshops, seminars, and faculty development programs
- Participation in SWAYAM, MOOCs, and ICT-enabled learning
8. Research and Innovation
The university encourages research in disability studies, inclusive education, rehabilitation science, and interdisciplinary domains.
Research Highlights:
- Funded research projects from ICSSR, RCI, and UGC
- Publications in national and international journals
- Doctoral research in education, law, rehabilitation, and technology
- Annual Research Conclave and Inclusive Education Conference
9. Career Development and Placement Cell
DSMNRU has a dedicated Career Development and Placement Cell (CDPC) that assists students in shaping their careers.
Services Provided:
- Training in soft skills, communication, and job readiness
- Internship assistance for law, management, education, and engineering students
- Placement drives with corporate, NGOs, and government agencies
- Career counseling for students with disabilities
- Tie-ups with inclusive employers and CSR initiatives
Past Recruiters Include:
- NIIT Foundation, TCS, Tech Mahindra, NGOs, Rehab Centers
- Schools for special education and inclusive teaching institutions
10. Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
DSMNRU promotes an active and inclusive student community with events that celebrate diversity and talent.
Key Activities:
- Annual Cultural Fest – “Srijan”
- Inter-College Debates and Elocution
- Sign Language Workshops
- Yoga and Sports Competitions
- Awareness Drives for Disability Rights
11. Notable Alumni and Community Impact
Although a relatively young university, DSMNRU has produced professionals working in:
- Special schools and rehabilitation centers
- Legal and human rights advocacy
- Academic research and public administration
- Alumni working with international NGOs and government departments for disability inclusion and policy implementation
12. Reputation, Rankings, and Awards
- Recognized as India’s first specialized university for inclusive education
- Acknowledged by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Featured in education journals for its pioneering role in special education
- Honored with awards for:
- Accessible Campus Design
- Innovation in Special Needs Education
- Community Rehabilitation Initiatives
13. Address and Contact Information
Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University
Mohaan Road, Near Lucknow Outer Ring Road,
Lucknow – 226017, Uttar Pradesh, India
📞 Phone: +91-522-2891393, 2891388
📧 Email: info@dsmnru.ac.in
🌐 Website: www.dsmnru.ac.in
14. Future Plans and Development
DSMNRU envisions expanding its outreach and academic excellence through:
- Introduction of AI and Assistive Tech-based programs
- Establishment of Disability Studies Research Centre
- International collaborations for inclusive education models
- Launch of online certificate programs for rural and remote students
- Upgradation to a Center of Excellence in Special Education and Rehabilitation
Conclusion
Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University is not just an academic institution — it is a movement towards equity, empowerment, and inclusion. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, forward-thinking curriculum, and strong social mission, DSMNRU is nurturing a generation of skilled professionals and compassionate leaders.
In a world striving for inclusivity and equal opportunity, DSMNRU stands tall as an example of how education can be transformative—not only in academic pursuits but in reshaping societal attitudes toward disability and diversity.
Dr Shakuntala Misra University admission 2025, DSMNRU special education programs, DSMNRU B.Ed special education, inclusive university in Uttar Pradesh, DSMNRU hostel facilities for disabled, rehabilitation university courses India, Dr Shakuntala Misra MBA admission, DSMNRU contact number and location
