On Monday, the Odisha government officially formalized a collaborative initiative by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology-Bhubaneswar. The primary objective of this partnership is to extend inclusive and high-quality educational opportunities to visually impaired students across the state. The formal signing ceremony took place in the presence of distinguished personalities, including SSEPD Minister Ashok Panda and Principal Secretary Bishnupada Sethi, representing the Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department.

During the announcement, Minister Panda underscored the transformative impact of advancements in assistive technology, specifically emphasizing the remarkable progress in computers, tablets, and smartphones. These technological strides have opened up new avenues, enabling visually impaired individuals to read and write in standard scripts with unprecedented ease.

In alignment with the collaborative spirit of the MoU, IIT-Bhubaneswar will play a crucial role by providing technical guidance and support for the identification of the most suitable assistive devices. Sethi emphasized that these devices will be tailored to meet the identified needs of blind students, ensuring a personalized and effective approach to their education.

This ambitious project encompasses a multifaceted approach, including comprehensive training programs for students, specialized career counseling services, the establishment of state-of-the-art recording labs, and the creation of accessible art centers. By incorporating these diverse initiatives, the collaborative effort aims not only to enhance educational accessibility but also to empower visually impaired students to thrive in a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Source: PTI

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