Education India Project #59111

Procurement and distribution of Assistive devices

by Mitra Jyothi

Procurement and distribution of Assistive devices

Project Report | Feb 2, 2026
Life-changing impact thanks to Technology

By Asha Shridhar | Executive Director

Access to technology = access to opportunity

Access to assistive technology is directly linked to educational success, employability, and independent living for persons with visual impairment. With support received through donors and well-wishers, Mitra Jyothi procured and distributed 30 assistive devices to economically disadvantaged visually impaired youth and adults enrolled in our education, digital literacy, and skill development programs.

This initiative was designed to reduce technology barriers and accelerate digital inclusion.

Devices Procured

Device Type

Quantity

Primary Purpose

Smart Glasses

Reading, object recognition, navigation

Smartphones

Communication, accessible learning, apps

Laptops

Education, digital skills, employability

Total

Direct beneficiaries: 30

Smart Glasses (10 Units)

Usage outcomes (within 3 months):

100% users able to independently read printed material
80% reported reduced dependency on scribes
70% used devices daily for academic or workplace tasks
Average reading speed improved by ~40%

Smartphones (10 Units)

Preloaded with screen readers, OCR apps, navigation tools, and learning platforms.

Usage outcomes:

100% beneficiaries attending online classes independently
90% regularly accessing WhatsApp/email for communication
75% completed digital assignments without assistance
60% began using digital payments and online services
Average daily usage: 4–5 hours

Laptops (10 Units)

Installed with screen readers, magnification tools, MS Office, internet access, and skill development software.

Usage outcomes:

100% students completed digital literacy modules
85% prepared resumes independently
70% applied for jobs/internships online
50% enrolled in advanced or certification courses
Average typing speed increased from 15 WPM to 35 WPM

Beneficiary Profile

Total beneficiaries: 30
Age group: 16–30 years
60% female | 40% male
85% from low-income households
100% first-time personal device owners

Distribution & Support Process

Individual needs assessment conducted for all beneficiaries
Devices assigned based on academic/vocational requirements
15 hours of orientation training per participant
Monthly follow-up and troubleshooting support
Usage tracking and outcome monitoring for 6 months

Measurable Impact (First 6 Months)

Key Indicators

92% increase in independent study time
75% reduction in reliance on caregivers/scribes
68% improvement in digital competency scores
40% increase in course completion rates
6 beneficiaries secured internships or part-time employment
100% reported improved confidence and self-reliance

Beneficiary Feedback

“Earlier I waited for someone to read for me. Now I read, write, and attend classes on my own. My laptop has made me job ready.”

Conclusion

The procurement of 30 assistive devices has resulted in measurable gains in independence, digital access, and employability for visually impaired youth. Technology has not only enhanced learning outcomes but also strengthened dignity and self-confidence.

With continued support, Mitra Jyothi aims to expand this program to 100+ additional beneficiaries annually, ensuring equitable access to assistive technology for all.

Empowering women with tools for independence

Independence begins here

Right device. Right support. Right time

Smartphones opening doors to new connections

Links:

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Oct 8, 2025
Technology, a Bridge to Independence and Inclusion

By Asha Shridhar | Executive Director

Empowering Dreams through Technology

Introduction

Mitra Jyothi, a non-profit organization based in Bengaluru, has been working tirelessly since 1990 to empower persons with visual impairment (VI) through education, training, and access to assistive technology. As part of our ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusion, Mitra Jyothi undertook a project for the Procurement and Distribution of Assistive Devices aimed at enhancing accessibility, independence, and learning opportunities for visually impaired students and professionals from marginalized communities.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the project were:

To provide assistive technology tools that enable independent learning and digital empowerment of visually impaired individuals.
To support higher education students in accessing digital learning resources and online classes.
To enhance employability and livelihood opportunities for VI professionals through access to digital tools.
To promote inclusion and equitable access to technology among persons with visual impairment from underprivileged backgrounds.
To encourage the benefits of using the White Cane – a sign of Independence and respect.

Beneficiary Details

The project benefitted a total of 80 visually impaired individuals from marginalized societies across Karnataka and neighbouring states.

15 Smartphones to VI Students pursuing higher education - For accessing online classes, digital books, educational apps, and communication

5 Laptops to VI & Motor disabled Professionals - To support professional work, documentation, and communication

2 DAISY Devices to VI Professionals - For accessible reading and information access

2 Desktops to VI Entrepreneur (Cybercafe, Davanagere) - To support income generation through accessible digital services

56 Road Safety & Mobility Kits/White Cane to VI Beneficiaries – To support mobility and independence

Implementation Process

Identification of Beneficiaries:

Potential beneficiaries were identified through applications received from VI students and professionals. Priority was given to individuals from economically weaker and marginalized backgrounds.

Assessment of Need:

Each application was evaluated based on educational or professional requirement, current accessibility tools available, and potential impact of the device on the individual’s growth.

Procurement:

The devices were procured from verified Foundations and vendors ensuring compatibility with assistive software such as screen readers (Talkback, NVDA, JAWS) and DAISY reading tools.

Distribution:

A formal distribution program was organized at Mitra Jyothi, Bengaluru on 22^nd September 2025. The beneficiaries received orientation on device usage, accessibility settings, and installation of required assistive applications.

Follow-up and Support:

Post-distribution, Mitra Jyothi’s technical team continues to provide remote guidance and troubleshooting support to ensure optimal use of the devices.

Impact and Outcomes

Educational Empowerment: The smartphones enabled 15 higher education students to access online study materials, attend virtual classes, and communicate effectively with peers and teachers.
Professional Growth: The laptops and DAISY devices provided to VI professionals enhanced their productivity, access to digital resources, and employability.
Entrepreneurial Support: The two desktops provided to a visually impaired entrepreneur in Davanagere helped establish a small accessible cybercafé, promoting self-reliance and livelihood generation.
Digital Inclusion: The initiative significantly reduced the technology gap among visually impaired individuals from low-income backgrounds.
Mobility Empowerment: Enhanced the independence, confidence, and safety of visually impaired beneficiaries, empowering them to navigate their surroundings with greater ease, dignity, and assurance, while promoting inclusive mobility and self-reliance in their daily lives.

Conclusion

The Procurement and Distribution of Assistive Devices project by Mitra Jyothi has created a tangible impact on the lives of visually impaired individuals by enabling education, employment, entrepreneurship and mobility.

By providing accessible technology, the project reaffirmed Mitra Jyothi’s mission of Empowering the Visually Impaired through Education and Technology.

Continuous support and follow-up will be provided to all beneficiaries to ensure sustained use and maximum benefit of the devices. Mitra Jyothi remains committed to expanding such initiatives to reach more individuals in need across Karnataka and beyond.

Empowering Education through Technology

Entrepreneurship in Action

Moments of Joy and Independence

Smiles of Independence

technology for Inclusion

Links:

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Jun 23, 2025
Every Device, A Step Towards Inclusion

By Asha Shridhar | Executive Director

Accessible Chess - Strategy, Focus, Fun

The last three months at Mitra Jyothi have been full of life-changing moments. Contributions from our donors have enabled us to procure and distribute a wide range of assistive devices that are directly transforming the lives of individuals with visual impairment.

What We Achieved Together:

Assistive Device

Quantity Distributed

Smart Phones - 5

Laptops - 2

Digital Wallets - 17

Smart Canes - 20

DAISY Players - 4

Accessible Chess Boards - 4

Accessible Ludo Boards - 2

Accessible Snake & Ladder Boards - 2

Audible Cricket Balls - 6

The Impact You Made Possible:

Unlocking Digital Access:
With smartphones and laptops in hand, our visually impaired beneficiaries can now access online education, skill development courses, employment portals, and vital communication platforms—bridging the digital gap and opening doors to new opportunities.

Promoting Independence & Safety:
Smart canes have given 20 individuals newfound confidence to move safely and independently through their communities, reducing reliance on others and promoting personal freedom.

Financial Empowerment:
Digital wallets have empowered 17 individuals to manage their finances independently, participate in cash transactions, and navigate an increasingly digital economy with ease.

Bringing Joy and Recreation:
Accessible board games and cricket equipment have provided not just entertainment, but also avenues for cognitive development, inclusion, and social interaction, ensuring holistic well-being.

Enabling Lifelong Learning:
DAISY players are helping our students access educational materials in accessible formats, promoting continuous learning and personal growth.

Stories of Change:
Every device distributed tells a story of courage and determination. For some, it's the first step towards higher education; for others, it’s a tool that allows them to work, travel, or simply enjoy a game with friends and family. Your support has made these moments possible.

Looking Ahead:
With your continued generosity, we hope to reach even more individuals in the coming months, providing them with the tools they need to lead independent, empowered, and fulfilling lives.

Thank You!
Your kindness is changing lives every day. Together, we are building a more inclusive world.

Technology unlocking new possibilities

Distribution of Assistive Device - Smart Phone

Joy of Independence with every step. White Cane

Creating moments of joy and connections. Play Ludo

Snakes & Ladders. Inclusion through simple joys

Links:

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