Akropong School for the Blind in the Eastern Region of Ghana is making strides in inclusive education with the launch of the Technology Open School Project (TeOSS).
This initiative, a collaboration between UNESCO, Huawei, and the Kofi Annan Center of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE) Ghana-India, successfully trained four teachers and 180 students in leveraging modern technology to enhance learning experiences for visually impaired students.
Funded by UNESCO and Huawei, the TeOSS project aims to empower students by providing access to assistive technologies that make it easier to navigate digital platforms. The initiative reinforces the message that disability does not equate to incompetence.
In an interview, Veronica Dong, director of the Akropong School for the Blind, expressed her excitement about the transformative potential of the project. “Our students have often been marginalized in their access to technology. With the support of GI-KACE, UNESCO and Huawei, we are taking important steps to ensure that our students can fully participate in a digital world,” he noted.
Kobi Hemaa Osisiadan-Bekoe, Director of Corporate Affairs at GI-KACE, emphasized that the TeOSS project is not just about providing devices.
“It’s about creating an inclusive environment where students can learn and grow together,” he said, assuring that ongoing training and workshops will continue to empower both students and teachers in the use of emerging technologies.
“This initiative goes beyond technology; it aims to build trust and independence between teachers and students. I expect 60% of our students will develop an interest in ICT careers and gain digital knowledge for a successful future,” added Kobi Hemaa.
Students of the Akropong School for the Blind applauded the efforts of UNESCO and Huawei to promote a support network that promotes digital literacy among people with disabilities.
They are optimistic that the TeOSS project will contribute to bridging the digital divide, ensuring equal access to education and technology and paving the way for a future where all students can thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.