Bharathidasan University’s unit helps visually challenged persons learn digital technology

Bharathidasan University’s Centre for Differently Abled Persons (CDAP) is equipping visually challenged students with digital technology skills to help them excel in a competitive job market

Bharathidasan University’s Centre for Differently Abled Persons (CDAP) is equipping visually challenged students with digital technology skills to help them excel in a competitive job market.

“When we started the centre in 2011, we did not want visually challenged students to be confined to making candles or other handicrafts because there is a perception that people with vision impairment are meant only for such jobs. Digital literacy can empower them to take the next step,” M. Prabhavati, associate professor and director (in-charge) of CDAP, told The Hindu.

This year, CDAP will be providing digital training to students from Class VI onwards, of Government Higher Secondary School for Blind Girls in Tiruchi. The Dolours School for the Deaf will be supported by the centre’s mentorship this year.

“We are thinking of a unique training programme for computer literacy and employability skills for these students, in order to empower them for future,” said Ms. Prabhavati.

Beginning with a ‘talking digital library’ of audio material for visually challenged students pursuing higher education in 2011, the centre has since added other assistive technologies such as screen reading software Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA), magnifiers for those with low vision, and a reading machine that converts printed material into audio MP3 files.

“Though there are several branded versions available, we prefer to use open source software because it is free, and will allow persons with disability access computers from any location,” said Ms. Prabhavati.

The centre does not use specially adapted computer keyboards while training visually challenged students. “There are many opportunities for visually impaired students in government service, but only if they can work independently. Encouraging them to hone their digital and communication skills on a par with others is a key part of the training. Some of our students are successfully employed in major companies,” she said.