Last November 18 marked the start of our activities in Pakistan, bringing the total to 14 countries where we have active projects. We launched a course designed to teach visually impaired people in the country basic computer and internet navigation skills, document creation, and email setup and management. Twenty trainers are now skilled and ready to deliver the Introduction to Computer Basics for Visually Impaired people (ICBVI).
This newly inaugurated course is the result of a strong collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Virtual University of Pakistan, which is hosting the courses.
Colleagues, trainers, and enthusiastic participants came together on the inauguration day to celebrate this occasion. Pietro Palella, our ST Foundation President, took the opportunity to thank the trainers and said, “Your commitment and passion are the heart of this initiative. You are not just acquiring skills for yourselves but becoming catalysts for change in your communities. As you take this journey with us, remember that every challenge you overcome will empower you to inspire others. Your efforts will have a lasting impact on the lives of the individuals you will teach.”
Cristian Bernareggi, a senior expert in digital inclusion who has been working with us for many years, was the visionary creator of this curriculum, ensuring that it is accessible and impactful for visually impaired individuals. His dedication and passion were evident in every detail of the course, from the carefully crafted lessons to the innovative teaching methods.
Cristian collaborated with Sada Kane on this preparation journey. Sada, our ITU project manager in Senegal and one of our ICB4VI Master Trainers, played a pivotal role in cascading the course, bringing his extensive experience from Senegal and Ghana to shape its structure. Enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge with the trainers, Sada was always ready with a warm smile and encouraging words that reassured participants they were in capable hands.
If you wish to know more about their personal views on this project watch this podcast by the Virtual University of Pakistan.
The event was an opportunity to introduce the trainers to the audience. Each had a unique story, but they all shared a common goal—to empower visually impaired individuals and help them thrive in a digital world. The involvement of the Virtual University of Pakistan ensured that the course was tailored to meet the specific needs of participants in the region. This collaboration enriched the learning experience and set a new standard for accessibility in education.
The launch event concluded with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the power of collaboration. As the trainers left the venue, they carried with them a sense of pride and determination. They knew that they were part of something bigger than themselves—a movement that would break barriers and create pathways to independence and success for visually impaired individuals.
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