Technology is indispensable part of our life in this globalized world. Life cannot be imagined without technology, whether to overcome daily challenges or to survive in this fiercely competitive age. Access to appropriate technology results in efficiencies and creates adequate opportunities for us all. It is even more important for the persons with disability, for their empowerment and equal participation in the society and to end all forms of discriminations.
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The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and its optional protocol were adopted in December 2006 and entered into force on May 3rd, 2008. Nepal endorsed this convention on December 13, 2009. Article 2 of this Convention defines the role of communication, particularly accessible information and communication technology. Article 9 focuses on accessibility to latest technologies, including email and Internet to all at an affordable price. Article 21 ensures freedom of expression and access to information and strongly advocates use of information and communication technologies for the welfare of people with disabilities.
Need of technologies and devices vary from person to person, depending on the nature of disability. For example a blind person needs a talking technology while a person with difficulty in using fingers or who has lost both hands may need screen touch or voice modulated technologies.
A visually-impaired person can use screen reader software such as Jaws, NVDA, Thunder, Super nova as well as speech synthesizers to improve his access to computer. Through these software, the visually-impaired persons can navigate around the icons that appear on computer screen. Similarly, low vision or partially sighted person can use different software to increase size of objects on computer screens.
A low vision engineer, Him Prashad Gautam, has developed Nepali screen reading software named “Dristibachak”. Visually-impaired computer users can access Nepali font with the help of this software. Refreshable Braille display is another device for the visually-impaired. This works as a screen reader. Electronic device called Braille memo helps record and display recorded texts in Braille printing. Software technology called “Natural reader” can also read and record scanned pages of the book in human voice. It has significant advantages for visually-impaired students.
Likewise, different talking software like “Talk” or “Mobile Speak” can be installed in the mobile sets. Most of the Nokia series have voice operating systems which facilitate the persons with disabilities dial the phone with the help of human sound. The change in display color and vibration helps persons with hearing disability to find calls and sms in such mobile phones.
It is disheartening that most new communication and information technologies are still beyond the reach of world’s disabled community, particularly those living in developing countries like Nepal. In the absence of adaptive or assistive technical tools they have traditionally been deprived of opportunities in education, health and employment, making it hard for them to function on equal footing with those without disabilities.
Even a simple device can provide effective support for the disabled. White cane is a simple device whose use enables a person with visual disability to move freely and independently.
Needless to say, technologies have a vital role in boosting morale and motivation of the disables. Proper use of technology not only improves one’s efficiency but also ensures active participation of the disabled in the society and in nation building.
Therefore, the government, civil society, donors, I/NGOs, media and all people should join hands to remove social barriers that people with disabilities face.
It will take such a combined effort to make technical inventions accessible to the disabled. Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) can play a constructive and facilitating role in this. It is time to ensure full and active participation of people with disabilities in political and social activities.
The author is the President of the Guardian Association of Blind, Nepal
