Zimbabwe’s plan to enhance access to ICT for persons with disabilities

Zimbabwe aims to develop the skills of teachers and other specialists who work with persons with disabilities. Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Public Services, Labor, and Social Welfare, PORTAZ, and the internet Society of Zimbabwe recently embarked on n ICT training program to promote inclusion and empower persons with disabilities, bridging the digital divide and advancing human rights integration.

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The New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO) and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in Zimbabwe are exploring ways to promote inclusion and reduce poverty of persons with disabilities through the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs).

Mr. Taungana Ndoro, the director of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, stated that it is essential to focus on developing the skills and abilities of teachers, tutors, and other specialists who work with persons with disabilities. Ndoro also emphasized that creating a network of resource centers equipped with specialized assistive devices is essential. These centers would serve the purpose of providing access to information and knowledge for persons with disabilities. They would also offer training to educational personnel on effectively using ICT in special needs education. Furthermore, Mr Ndoro suggests the creation of an online platform that would gather a database of best practices and case studies regarding the implementation of digital opportunities for teaching individuals with special educational needs.

The Ministry of Public Services, Labor, and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and the internet Society of Zimbabwe, has recently embarked ICT training program for persons with disabilities. This initiative attempts to bridge the digital divide and promote human rights integration.

Christine Peta, the head of the Ministry of Public Services, Labor, and Social Welfare for Persons with Disabilities, stated that the initiative would empower persons with disabilities to care for themselves through ICT training. Peta added that the industry would be expanded to rural regions, especially in hard-to-reach areas.