The NED University of Engineering & Technology has always been at the forefront of inclusive education, ensuring that opportunities in higher learning are accessible to all segments of society. In recent years, the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology has proudly welcomed visually impaired students into its undergraduate programs.
These students attend mainstream classes alongside their peers, demonstrating resilience and exceptional commitment. However, their learning experience can be further enhanced through a dedicated Facilitation Center for Blind Students—a specialized space equipped with assistive technologies and resources to support their academic and personal development.
The University’s vision is to empower visually impaired students through technology and training, enabling them to excel academically and professionally while promoting inclusion and independence.
The objectives of this project are:
- To provide a supportive environment with specialized assistive tools and software.
- To enhance accessibility to course material and digital content.
- To develop soft skills, confidence, and employability among visually impaired students.
- To create a model of inclusion and technological empowerment that other institutions can replicate.
Scope of the Project
The proposed initiative does not require new construction. The Department has identified an existing space within its premises that can be renovated and adapted into a facilitation center.
The Center will serve as:
- A learning and resource hub for visually impaired students.
- A training area for skill development workshops (e.g., communication, computing, and self-reliance).
- A collaborative space where peer support and mentoring can take place.
Initially, the Center will serve six current students, with the capacity to support future intakes, as visually impaired students are admitted every alternate year.
Proposed Facilities and Equipment
| Category | Description | Purpose |
| Assistive Computers | 6 desktop computers with high-end specs (headphone-supported, voice-enabled OS, SSDs for fast access) | Individual workstations for blind students |
| Screen Reader Software | JAWS (Job Access With Speech), NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access), VoiceOver (Mac), and other accessibility tools | Allows auditory interaction with computers |
| Braille Display Devices | 2 refreshable Braille displays (40-cell) | Enables tactile reading of on-screen text |
| Braille Printer/Embosser | 1 unit (with paper sheets) | Printing study material and notes in Braille |
| Text-to-Speech & OCR Software | Kurzweil 1000 or ABBYY FineReader | Converts printed material into spoken or digital text |
| Audio Recording Devices | 6 portable voice recorders | For recording lectures or notes |
| Learning & Collaboration Tools | Adaptive keyboards, tactile diagrams, and raised-line drawing kits | Facilitate diagrams and code understanding |
| Furniture and Renovation | Ergonomic desks, acoustic environment, air-conditioning, accessible lighting, and signage in Braille | Renovation of existing departmental space |
| Soft Skills Area | Round-table setup for workshops and training sessions | Communication, teamwork, and professional grooming |
