New devices enhance edu for visually impaired in Jamalpur
After 34 years of service, Principal Paramjit Kaur of the Government Institute for Blind in Jamalpur prepares to retire. Her farewell comes as she reflects on the recognition she received from the district administration just before her retirement. “This is perhaps the best award I have received from the district administration,” she shared. “Before I retire, I’m able to provide my students with the best I could offer, thanks to the hardwork and commitment of Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal, who promised to do everything in his power for this institute.”
As part of the district’s Uplifting Mission for Education and Empowerment of Divyangjans (UMEED) project, Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal today launched the Annie Smart Classroom, designed to enhance Braille learning for visually impaired students. The initiative aims to make education inclusive by making learning tools more engaging and accessible.
The school had been working towards securing the necessary devices for the past two years and today, their efforts paid off. Seven Annie devices were installed in the classroom to revolutionise Braille learning through interactive audio lessons and gamified activities.
Deputy Commissioner Jorwal highlighted the challenges typically associated with Braille learning, which often requires constant supervision from a specialist. He described the Annie device as compact, roughly the size of a telephone, featuring a Braille keyboard, display, writing system and built-in speakers. The device’s human voice guide provides real-time feedback and corrective suggestions, allowing students to learn independently and effectively.
In addition to the Annie devices, 35 Daisy devices, containing over six million digital audiobooks for the visually impaired, were provided to the students. These devices would enrich the learning experience for the institute’s students.
As part of the UMEED project, 20 students from the institute will also receive music and singing lessons at the Ishmeet Singh Music Institute. This would be followed by a music talent hunt, offering students a chance to showcase their abilities.
Deputy Commissioner Jorwal called the event a “red letter day,” stressing people with disabilities are vital members of society who deserve equal rights and opportunities. He revealed discussions with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Cabinet Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian were underway to expand this initiative at the state level.
Gratitude was also extended to Lokesh Jain of TK Steels and Divakar Jain of Prime Steels for their support, as well as to IDBI Bank for contributing interactive panels and furniture to six government schools, including the Government Institute for Blind.
Deputy Commissioner Jorwal praised Principal Kaur for her dedication to improving the school’s quality. “A teacher always wants her students to succeed,” he said. “I’m sure she’ll retire with the satisfaction her students will now learn in a smooth, engaging manner thanks to these new devices.”