SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo on Tuesday inaugurated a foundation course in computers and employability for persons with visual impairments and a special workshop for students with speech and hearing impairments at the Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS) campus in Bemina.
The programmes have been organised by VMS in collaboration with EnAble India and the University of Kashmir.
During his visit, the Deputy Commissioner toured the rehabilitation, education, therapy and vocational units of the VMS campus and interacted with students, beneficiaries and staff.
Addressing the gathering, Labroo said persons with disabilities have the talent and potential to contribute meaningfully to society and should be provided equal opportunities. He assured the district administration’s support for strengthening educational, vocational and developmental facilities to promote their independence and inclusion.
He said the administration is exploring the establishment of higher education facilities, vocational training and skill development programmes to improve educational and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. He also stressed the need to strengthen accessibility infrastructure, improve inter-departmental coordination, expand support services for children with hearing and speech impairments, and ensure the availability of sign language resource persons.
The Deputy Commissioner commended the Voluntary Medicare Society for its work in rehabilitation and education and appreciated its collaboration with EnAble India in introducing technology-based interventions.
On the occasion, AI-enabled assistive devices, including Pro Smart Glasses and Smart Mobility Canes, were distributed among students with visual impairments to enhance accessibility and independent mobility.
Earlier, VMS President Dr Mir Mohammad Maqbool outlined the organisation’s work over the past five decades, while Vice President Prof. Masooda Yasin highlighted the importance of collaboration in promoting inclusive education and rehabilitation.
Representatives of EnAble India and the University of Kashmir also spoke on the need for capacity building and information technology-based training for persons with disabilities.
The programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Mir Imtiyaz-ul-Aziz, IAS probationer Alfred Thomas, Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Dean Students’ Welfare, University of Kashmir, Prof. Seema Singh, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tahir Sajad, District Social Welfare Officer Mohammad Yousuf, Tehsildar Shalteng Rayees Ahmad, Secretary VMS Dr Farooq A. Kaloo, EnAble India representative Dr Alim Chandani, along with academicians, rehabilitation professionals, students, parents and members of civil society.
