The Internet Training Centres Initiative (ITCI)

Project Description The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have established a computer-training centre in Ethiopia called the Adaptive Technology Centre for the Blind (ATCB) to assist the blind and visually impaired community in Ethiopia to gain access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). This project aims at imparting training to blind students in Ethiopia, government employees and others to use computers equipped with adaptive devices such as voice synthesizers, magnifying hardware and software as well as Braille embossers, scanners and printers. As part of the project, a course for trainers and students will be organized at five technical schools across Ethiopia. The project will charge a moderate training fee from clients who can afford it or their sponsors. Proceeds from sale of Braille publications such as training manuals, newspapers and other materials as well as fees and charges from individuals and organizations will also contribute to sustaining the initiative. In addition, periodic fund-raising events are expected to mobilize community support.
Social Impact & Benefits The Centre have helped raising awareness that blind and visually impaired people can fulfil their potential through the assistance of ICTs. This maginalized people are able now to keep themselves regularly informed and independently operate PC's. They are currently in a position to work or study with a higher degree of confidence than ever before. Public and government awareness also has increased greatly as a result, in regards to the potentials, legitimate rights and due merits of sight impaired people.
Future Scope ATCB intends to accomplish two important project components, as part of its ICT intervention for the blind community in Ethiopia. These major priorities are hoped to benefit blind people in the rest of Africa as well.