By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/ Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Representative of the Grants Management Committee (GMC) of Makerere University’s Research and Innovations Fund (RIF), emphasized the significance of assistive technologies in enhancing teaching and learning for visually impaired students in Uganda’s public universities.
“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision,” Dr. Nampewo quoted Helen Keller, an American author who lost her sight and hearing at a young age. ‘True vision goes beyond physical sight, and this project aims to enable visually impaired students to see with their mind.’
The project, titled “Unlocking Potential for Enhanced Teaching and Learning of the Visually Impaired in Uganda’s Public Universities: The Role of Assistive Technologies (ATEVIL),” aims to promote inclusive education and enhance the learning experience of visually impaired students.
Dr. Nampewo lauded the project team on their innovative approach, which not only positively influences government development policies and programs but also individual lives, hopes, and dreams. “I implore you to explore widening the results and impact of this project, to get more actionable results and widen the impact of the findings,” she said.
The project is aligned with the 4th National Development Plan 2025/6 – 2029/30, which dedicates a full chapter to human capital development. “Human capital plays a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of individuals and societies, and thereby enhancing productivity and quality of life,” Dr. Nampewo noted.
Dr. Nampewo emphasized that disability inclusion is an important prerequisite for equitable, sustainable, and just development. “This project does just that, by advancing access to education and promoting equity and inclusion,” she said.
As Makerere University strengthens its role as a research-led university, Dr. Nampewo encouraged the project team to continue working towards stimulating societal transformation and remaining an important player in the economy and development of Uganda. “Let Makerere shine, and let us work together to enable those with visual impairments to see with their mind, as Helen Keller was enabled to do,” Nampeewo