Computer Technology Key to Empowering Visually Impaired Persons: Divya Sharma

Shimla, October 15: Umang Foundation organised an online awareness programme on World White Cane Day, highlighting the rights, opportunities and empowerment of persons with visual impairment.

Keynote speaker Divya Sharma, a visually impaired corporate strategist and National Award recipient, emphasised that computer technology and assistive software play a vital role in enabling visually impaired people to pursue education and careers. She explained how screen readers and talking software make ordinary computers and laptops accessible.

Sharing her personal journey, Sharma recalled facing discrimination in school before completing higher education through correspondence courses and establishing herself in the corporate sector. She stressed that persons with disabilities need equal rights, access to technology and opportunities rather than sympathy. She also highlighted the white cane’s role in promoting confidence and independent mobility.

The programme was chaired by Dr Muskan Negi, visually impaired singer and Assistant Professor of Music, and moderated by Abhishek Bhagra, a visually impaired PhD scholar. Participants shared their experiences and discussed accessible education, assistive technology and disability awareness.

Umang Foundation President Prof. Ajai Srivastava said the programme aimed to raise awareness about the rights and capabilities of persons with visual impairment.

Samagra Sikhsha