ITG calls for govt support for physically-challenged

By Abdulai SAAKA, Accra

THE Inclusive Technology Group (ITG), a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to the development of assistive technologies for persons with disabilities in Ghana, has made a strong appeal for government backing to help expand their initiatives.

Joseph Aboagye, the Project Coordinator of ITG, made this call during an exclusive interview on the Science and Technology segment of Zed in the Morning on Zed 101.9 FM. Aboagye urged stakeholders, including the government, to partner with ITG to enhance accessibility and inclusivity for people living with disabilities in the country.

In the interview, Aboagye spotlighted one of the the group’s flagship innovation, Handy Ear, a cutting-edge device designed to improve communication between the deaf and the general public.

“Handy Ear is an assistive technology that helps the deaf by providing visual representations of the sounds happening around them. Through this app, a deaf person can see what is going on in their environment or what someone is trying to communicate,” Aboagye explained.

This innovation aims to bridge communication barriers for the hearing-impaired, empowering them to navigate daily interactions with greater ease and confidence.

“The idea behind Handy Ear is to bring the ear into your hand,” Aboagye added, emphasizing the practical impact of the app on the lives of deaf individuals. With Ghana’s deaf community often sidelined in technological advancements, Handy Ear stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment, demonstrating the potential for technology to close accessibility gaps.

Beyond the Handy Ear app, ITG has embarked on several other critical projects to uplift individuals with disabilities. One such initiative involves creating accessible learning materials for the visually impaired. Aboagye elaborated on the group’s efforts to supply specialized printed books for blind students across schools in Ghana.

“We are working on providing these schools with Braille printers and other assistive technologies to ensure blind students can access the same educational opportunities as their peers,” he said. This initiative is part of a broader vision to democratize education and enable blind individuals to participate more fully in society.

However, despite ITG’s innovative work and growing impact, Aboagye noted that the organization faces significant challenges, particularly regarding funding. As a non-profit organization, ITG relies heavily on partnerships and donations.

“We have been fortunate to have had some supportive partners, but we need more sustainable, long-term support,” he said. Aboagye made a passionate plea for the government and corporate stakeholders to step in, underscoring that sustained institutional backing is essential to expanding ITG’s reach and effectiveness.

Aboagye also highlighted an upcoming event, the Disability Hackathon and Exhibition Conference (DHEC), scheduled to take place from October 23rd to 25th at the Civil Aviation Training Center in Accra.

The hackathon will bring together developers, tech enthusiasts, and disability advocates to collaborate on solutions aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities. The event is expected to attract local and international attention, providing a platform for discussions on how technology can transform the lives of the disabled.

“We invite everyone to come and witness how technology can be used to support people with disabilities. The DHEC is a step toward realizing the full potential of inclusive technology in Ghana,”Aboagye stated.

The hackathon will not only showcase technological solutions but also foster greater public awareness of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Ghana. Aboagye believes that by involving government officials and key stakeholders, the event could serve as a catalyst for policy changes that promote the development of inclusive technologies.

In closing, Aboagye expressed his gratitude to Zed 101.9 FM for providing a platform to raise awareness about ITG’s work. He reiterated the group’s commitment to advancing the rights and capabilities of individuals with disabilities through technology. With the call for government support, ITG is looking to scale its efforts and ensure more persons with disabilities in Ghana can benefit from innovative assistive technologies. As the organization continues to break new ground, the involvement of policymakers and institutional stakeholders will be crucial in determining how far ITG’s impact can reach in building a truly inclusive society.