The number of disabled college students is on the rise, from 4,045 in 2006 to 8,598 in 2015 and 9,653 last year. (image: Sahmyook University)
SEJONG, Feb. 19 (Korea Bizwire) – The number of stenographers and sign language interpreters helping disabled college students will increase. In addition, they will be given better treatment.
The Ministry of Education announced Tuesday a plan to promote education and welfare support for disabled college students.
The number of disabled college students is on the rise, from 4,045 in 2006 to 8,598 in 2015 and 9,653 last year, according to the ministry.
To assist them, the government has decided to raise the limit on state subsidies to 1,862,000 won (US$1,563) per month for professional education support personnel such as stenographers and sign language interpreters, a 302,000 won on-year increase.
Moreover, the number of professional education support personnel will also increase from 160 last year to 200 by 2022.
In addition, national universities with two-story or taller buildings will install more elevators for the handicapped.
The current installation rate is 66.7 percent, but it will be expanded with a goal of 72.3 percent in 2022 and 100 percent in 2033.
Such policy changes will be included in an information disclosure system starting next year, so that students and parents are familiar with the new programs.
The government will expand career and job training opportunities for disabled college students, focusing on specific universities, and collaborate with relevant local agencies to develop education programs.
Furthermore, the ministry will also consider adding indicators related to disabled students to the capacity diagnosis of teachers’ training institutions to train people specializing in education for the disabled.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
