By Aoma Keziah
The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has hosted the African Expo on Specialized Learning Materials, Assistive Devices, and Technology in Nairobi, an event designed to showcase innovations aimed at enhancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
As assistive devices play a crucial role in improving the quality of life, independence, and participation of individuals with disabilities, the Expo aims to bridge gaps in access, awareness, and provision of these essential tools.
Globally, 2.5 billion people require at least one assistive device, with this number projected to rise to 3.5 billion by 2050, according to the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
In Kenya, the situation is dire, with the 2018 National Survey on Children with Special Needs and Disabilities highlighting a severe shortage of assistive devices in schools, hindering students with disabilities from accessing quality education.
Speaking during the opening ceremony Chief Guest, Basic Education PS Dr. Belio Kipsang, stated that the Expo is meant to create awareness of various assistive technologies in enhancing the inclusion of persons with disability
“The anticipated outcome of this expo is improved production, create awareness of various assistive technologies, distribution and maintenance of specialized, resources ensuring they are not only available but also sustainable,” noted PS Kipsang.
The Expo, themed “Affordable and Accessible Specialized Learning Materials, Assistive Devices, and Technology,” brought together manufacturers, innovators, distributors, and end-users to create awareness, share experiences, and explore solutions. Key objectives include exposing users to available technologies, fostering partnerships among stakeholders, and establishing networks to improve production and distribution.
The Director KISE, Dr. N. Kiogora thanked the government and other stakeholders for the support they have always accorded KISE during the KISE, underscoring the critical role of inclusive learning in achieving equity in education
“I thank everyone who has come to this Expo today, and also the government for greater efforts they have given us. KISE’s commitment is to enhance education for learners with special needs, and therefore I call for greater collaboration among stakeholders in the education sector to integrate modern assistive technologies into schools. Innovation is the key to unlocking the potential of all learners, regardless of their abilities,” remarked Kiogora.
Some of the Sub-Themes to Driving the Conversation were: Specialized Learning Materials, Assistive Devices, and Technology Manufacturers and suppliers who also showcased their products, offering a platform to engage with potential users and new markets.
Resourcing for Specialized Learning Resources which focused on financing models and strategic approaches for resourcing assistive technologies, with discussions on partnerships to enhance provision and distribution.
User Perspectives, Individuals who rely on these technologies shared their experiences, offering insights into the transformative impact assistive devices have on their daily lives, Policymakers explored the frameworks governing the production and distribution of assistive devices, discussing ways to enhance access and affordability across different countries.
Artificial Intelligence and IoT for Persons with Disabilities and their role of AI and IoT in enhancing independence and creating more inclusive environments for persons with disabilities were also explored, with case studies showcasing successful implementations.
The two day event is expected to address the critical challenges of availability, cost, and user-specific needs, and hopes to spark collaborations that will improve access to assistive devices across Africa. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the event seeks to drive forward a more inclusive future for persons with disabilities.
