DSMNRU Upgrades Talking Book Studio with Over 3,500 Audiobooks for Visually Impaired Students
In a significant move toward inclusive education, Dr Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU) in Lucknow has upgraded its Talking Book Studio at the Swami Vivekananda Central Library. The facility now provides visually impaired students with access to more than 3,500 audiobooks and recorded lectures, a substantial expansion from its previous collection of just a few hundred books.
Enhanced Learning Through Listening
University officials announced that the upgraded studio serves as a crucial resource for students to access academic material and literature through auditory means. The audiobooks have been meticulously recorded by the university's own teachers and scholars, ensuring high-quality educational content tailored to the curriculum.
DSMNRU spokesperson Yashwant Virodai emphasized that the studio has become an effective medium for learning, particularly benefiting students with disabilities. "The collection includes well-known literary works such as 'Gunahon Ka Devta' and 'Godan,' alongside textbooks directly linked to academic programs," Virodai stated.
Broad Access and Customized Support
The initiative is not limited to visually impaired students; all students at the university can borrow audiobooks on pen drives for convenient listening. The collection also features plays, short stories, and novels in audio format, diversifying the learning experience.
Moreover, the university offers personalized support for students requiring specific titles. "If a student requests a book, we arrange for its conversion into an audiobook using specialised software," Virodai explained. "This makes it easier for students to study and comprehend material through listening, fostering a more inclusive academic environment."
Commitment to Inclusive Education
Vice-Chancellor Prof Sanjay Singh highlighted that the Talking Book Studio represents a pivotal step in making education more accessible. "We are leveraging modern technology to ensure that students with visual impairments and other disabilities have equal opportunities in education," he said. The upgraded studio is expected to strengthen learning support services and widen access to educational resources for a larger student body.
This expansion aligns with DSMNRU's mission to promote rehabilitation and inclusivity, setting a benchmark for other institutions in supporting diverse learning needs through innovative technological solutions.
