Shillong, August 10: The Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRCSRE), Shillong, in collaboration with the Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), today organised a programme for the distribution of Smart Glasses to beneficiaries with visual impairment at Lok Bhavan, Shillong.
The programme was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya as the Chief Guest. The initiative aimed to empower persons with visual impairment through assistive technology and promote greater independence, accessibility and inclusion in their daily lives.
Shri Harish Chandra Chaudhary, IFS, Chief Secretary, Meghalaya, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative assistive technologies in improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities.
Shri Pranav Desai, Founder, Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), joined the programme online. He shared his views on the importance of assistive technology in promoting independence, accessibility and empowerment among persons with disabilities. Dr. Uttam Ojha, Divyangbandhu and Adviser, VOSAP, was also present on the occasion.
Other dignitaries present included Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani, Director, CRCSRE Shillong; Shri L. Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Meghalaya; and Smt. Bridget Warshong, Deputy Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Meghalaya. Staff members of CRCSRE Shillong, parents and beneficiaries also participated in the programme.
As part of the programme, 15 Smart Glasses were distributed to beneficiaries with visual impairment associated with CRCSRE Shillong. The assistive devices are intended to enhance the beneficiaries’ independence and confidence in performing various day-to-day activities.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya applauded the initiative undertaken by CRCSRE Shillong in collaboration with VOSAP. He appreciated the efforts of Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani, Director, CRCSRE Shillong, and Dr. Uttam Ojha, Divyangbandhu and Adviser, VOSAP, for their contribution towards promoting assistive technology for persons with disabilities.
The Hon’ble Governor also acknowledged that the office of CRCSRE Shillong has been continuously undertaking commendable work for the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities under the leadership of Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani. He appreciated the commitment and dedication of CRCSRE Shillong towards providing rehabilitation services and facilitating access to assistive technology for persons with disabilities.
The Governor encouraged CRCSRE Shillong and all stakeholders to continue their dedicated efforts for the welfare, rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with disabilities across the State of Meghalaya. He emphasised the importance of sustained initiatives that promote inclusion, dignity, independence and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The programme highlighted the significance of collaboration among government institutions, disability organisations and technology partners in strengthening access to assistive technology and creating an inclusive society.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Ram Shakal Sahani, Director, CRCSRE Shillong. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya for gracing the occasion and for appreciating and encouraging the efforts of CRCSRE Shillong towards the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Dr. Sahani also conveyed his appreciation to Shri Pranav Desai, Founder, VOSAP; Dr. Uttam Ojha, Divyangbandhu and Adviser, VOSAP; Shri L. Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities; Smt. Bridget Warshong, Deputy Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities; the Chief Secretary; officials; staff members; parents; and beneficiaries for their valuable presence and support.
The successful distribution of Smart Glasses marks an important step towards harnessing technology to enhance independence, accessibility and quality of life for persons with visual impairment in Meghalaya.
