The Postal Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has awarded information communication technology (ICT) certificates to a number of visually impaired individuals following a five-day Basic Digital Skills Training Program held in Masvingo province last week.
POTRAZ, the regulatory authority responsible for ICTs in Zimbabwe, has taken strides in promoting universal digital access through training Zimbabwe Association of the Visually Handicapped (ZAVH) members across the province’s rural and urban centers.
In an interview, POTRAZ director general, Gift Machengete said the program came not only enhance digital literacy but to proffer inclusivity.
“Our aim is to ensure that all people of Zimbabwe have equal access to the digital world, recognizing that technology has the power to break down barriers and empower individuals to reach their fullest potential, regardless of their abilities,” said Machengete.
"Disability is not a barrier to learning, adapting and thriving in the digital age. The eagerness of the visually impaired to embrace new technologies and their determination to overcome obstacles serve as an inspiration to us all. The skills they have acquired are not just tools for the digital realm but are also stepping stones towards greater independence and inclusion in all aspects of life."
Speaking at the same event, Zimbabwe chapter facilitator Shepherd Chifamba said the training will go a long way in enhancing the position of people living with disabilities in the digital era and will shape their understanding in the use of sophisticated technologies.
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"I am very exuberant that the training program went very well with the participants showing their ability to understand the new digital world in which we were taking them through to ensure inclusivity and equal digital participation," said Chifamba.
ZAVH executive director Timothy Mudarikwa also added that as the digital world evolves, people with disabilities need to continue learning and exploring.
“They (PWDs) should stay curious and fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and use of newly acquired skills to make a difference in their personal and professional lives," said Mudarikwa.
Meanwhile, ZAVH participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity and asked for further assistance from the government through provision of ICT gadgets to easily access the digital arena.