KISE Hosts Expo on Specialised Learning Resources and Disability Tech
The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) is set to host an expo focused on specialised learning materials, assistive devices, and technology.
Scheduled for September 5-6, 2024, this event will take place at KISE’s headquarters in Kasarani, Nairobi. The expo is themed “An African Expo on Specialised Learning Resources, Assistive Devices, and Technology.”
The expo will cover various sub-themes, including specialised learning materials, assistive devices, and technology. Manufacturers and suppliers are expected to present their products and engage with users to identify new market opportunities.
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Additional sub-themes include resourcing for specialised learning resources, user perspectives, policy viewpoints, and the application of AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Importance of Assistive Devices and Technology
Assistive devices and technology play a crucial role in enhancing participation, inclusion, and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006) recognizes access to these devices as a fundamental human right.
According to the WHO and UNICEF Global Report of 2022, approximately 2.5 billion people worldwide require at least one assistive device, a number projected to increase to 3.5 billion by 2050.
Studies in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, highlight significant barriers to accessing assistive devices and technology.
The 2018 National Survey on Children with Special Needs and Disabilities by KISE reported a shortage of these essential tools, hindering the delivery of quality education.
Learners with special needs often rely on specialised materials and devices to access curricular and extracurricular activities, which are vital for their daily lives.
These devices help mitigate challenges related to physical limitations, cognitive abilities, communication, and daily living activities.
Impact of Assistive Technology
Dr. Norman Kiogora, KISE’s director, emphasized the transformative potential of assistive technology in education and workforce participation during a recent media briefing.
He noted that access to appropriate and effective assistive technology could revolutionize the education of learners with disabilities, promoting greater independence and self-efficacy.
Research indicates that assistive technologies can significantly increase independence and reduce the need for formal support services and caregiver burden. Mobility devices, for instance, are provided by various stakeholders, including governments, international agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.
In several countries, including Costa Rica, Cuba, and South Africa, the provision of mobility devices is integrated into national healthcare systems. In Kenya, the Ministry of Education supplies specialised learning materials and assistive devices to students in special and inclusive schools.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite ongoing efforts by governments and other stakeholders, challenges remain in the availability, cost, user needs, environmental conditions, after-sales support, safety, and durability of assistive devices.
The upcoming expo aims to address these challenges by providing a platform for manufacturers, users, and suppliers to engage and collaborate.
Dr. Kiogora expressed hope that the event would raise awareness of various assistive technologies and enhance the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
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The expo is expected to attract a diverse group of participants, including manufacturers, innovators, distributors, parents, caregivers, educators, researchers, and persons with disabilities. Other participants will include representatives from government ministries, NGOs, development partners, and community-based organizations.
The event will facilitate the establishment of partnerships and networks for the production, provision, and distribution of specialised learning materials, assistive devices, and technology.
KISE Hosts Expo on Specialised Learning Resources and Disability Tech
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