Over 100 visually impaired persons equipped with digital skills

KAMPALA - In a bid to ensure that every Ugandan thrives in a digital era, the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) has equipped 120 visually impaired persons with digital literacy skills.

The ten-day digital literacy training focused on empowering persons with visual impairment with essential computer skills and digital confidence through assistive technologies such as Job Access with Speech (JAWS) and Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA).

The initiative titled, Introduction to Computer Basics for the Visually Impaired (ICBVI), according to UICT is part of their ongoing efforts to promote inclusive digital transformation and ensure that no one is left behind in Uganda’s digital economy.

The ICBVI programme is supported by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD) and the ST foundation through the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Digital Transformation Centres Initiatives (DTCI).

The Academic Registrar of UICT, Agnes Lumala, said that “When we realised that our earlier community digital skilling programs were leaving out visually impaired people, we decided to act deliberately because true transformation means everyone moves forward together.”

Since digital capacity remains low for people living with disabilities, Lumala said through ICBVI programme, they are ensuring that digital inclusion is a lived reality for all Ugandans.

“Learners have learnt how to navigate computers without a mouse, access online resources and use productivity tools which enable them to independently access education, employment and digital services,” disclosed Lumala.

According to the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) survey of 2023, it is estimated that 6 % of Uganda’s population (approximately 2.8 million people) live with some form of visual impairment, with 30,000 new bilateral cases occurring annually due to cataracts and refractive errors.

She made the remarks during the awarding of certificates to persons with visual impairment held at the National Innovation Hub in Nakawa on Friday.

UICT is now collaborating with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Kyambogo University, digital change agents, and the Uganda National Association of the Blind (UNAB) to scale up the initiative countrywide, expanding both training reach and assistive technology access.

Titus Muganga, a visually impaired student pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts in Education at Makerere University, during the awarding of certificates to persons with visual impairment at the National Innovation Hub in Nakawa on October 31, 2025. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)

Since accessing digital services and finding meaningful employment for persons with visual impairment is a challenge, the Head of UICT’s Business Development Centre, Francis Bwire, explained that equipping visually impaired persons means guaranteeing their access to information, financial independence and equal participation in Uganda’s growing digital economy.

Bwire disclosed: “One of our greatest achievements has been seeing graduates from earlier training return as trainers for this cohort. Some are now teaching online and earning an income through digital work, a testament to how technology can transform lives when accessibility is prioritised.”

The Deputy Principal at UICT, Dr Irene Nakiyimba, explained that digital literacy is now a basic necessity because most industries are driven by ICT. You are only relevant to society when you have the requisite digital skills that are needed.

“Today, we celebrate a powerful milestone in Uganda’s digital transformation journey. These graduates have mastered the use of computers, internet tools and assistive technologies, unlocking new doors to education, employment and entrepreneurship.” Nakiyimba stated.

“With digital skills, you cannot mention unemployment. You may not need to have capital to start an online business. All you need is the right network with business partners to earn money and thrive in the business environment.” Nakiyimba advised graduands.

Beneficiaries speak out

Titus Muganga, a visually impaired student pursuing a Bachelor's of Arts in education at Makerere University, said the digital literacy training has equipped him with skills on how to navigate the keyboard and type his work independently.

“Before the training, I didn’t have the right to secrecy and digital independence. For instance, if I wanted to type my coursework, process a land title, or write a personal message, I had to get someone to help me. But the skills I have attained will enable me to do my personal work independently online.” Muganga stated.

Donita Akakunda, 91st guild minister at Makerere University, commended UICT for supporting persons with visual impairment. Saying, since the majority of persons with visual impairment are computer illiterate, the skills they have attained will enable them save money they have been spending on typing coursework.