For over ten weeks, the head office of Hope Social Union for the Visually Impaired (HSUVI) Bamenda has been hosting the Digital Empowerment of Persons with Visual Impairments (DEPVI) training program.
This initiative according to HSUVI's leadership has as main objective to equip twenty visually impaired men and women with essential technological skills, particularly in smartphone usage, to enhance their daily living and overall quality of life.
Trainees during training
Initiated by HSUVI Bamenda in early 2023, the DEPVI project received support from the International Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation (ICDR) Cameroon group at the University of Toronto, Canada with four outstanding women trainees promised free smartphones upon completion of the training.
From February 3, 2024, until its conclusion on April 6, 2024, participants engaged in weekend training seminars and social media workshops. At the end of the training, the twenty laureates, especially the female recipients of the smartphones, expressed their gratitude towards HSUVI Bamenda and ICDR Cameroon Canada for their partnership, which according to them brought smiles to their faces and hearts through collective formal training exercises.
Bah Irene, representing the female trainees, highlighted the invaluable knowledge and ICT tools provided during the training, appreciating the sponsors and trainers for their generosity. Ayeah Ashbel, spokesperson for the male trainees, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the training in their lives and advocating for future support, particularly in providing smartphones to needy male participants.
HSUVI President, Ngong Peter Tonain speaking during the closing event As the program concluded, participants committed to continuing their learning journey through individual informal training appointments and research sessions. Their dedication according to HSUVI's President Ngong Peter Tonain reflects the ongoing efforts of HSUVI Bamenda to empower visually impaired individuals through digital and technological education, with hopes of spreading awareness globally about their endeavors.
By Ngenwie S. A
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