30 Visually Impaired and Partially Sighted Youths Empowered with Digital Skills

The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) has equipped over 30 visually impaired and partially sighted youths with practical digital skills through the Introduction to Computer Basics for the Visually Impaired (ICBVI) training of trainers program.

The training, implemented by UICT in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), aims to promote inclusive digital empowerment. 

According to the Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) survey in Uganda, 0.4% of Ugandans (160,000 people) are blind, while moderate to severe visual impairment affects 2.8 million people.

Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen benefits from the opportunities of the digital economy. She noted that the training aligns with Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap, which aims to build an inclusive digital economy.

“ICT becomes the lead tool to drive conformance and compliance to the Marrakesh Treaty, ensuring access to published works for persons who are visually impaired or print-disabled.” – Dr. Aminah Zawedde.

 “This training exemplifies our institutional mission to leave no one behind in the digital revolution.” – Dr. Fredrick Kitoogo, Principal UICT

The training has equipped 30 participants with foundational ICT skills, enabling new pathways to employment, education, innovation, and independence. 

Dr. Kitoogo noted that “digital skills are a human right, and a truly inclusive digital transformation is not only possible but necessary.”