A visually challenged student from Chennai, Ashwin Saravanan, experienced double joy when the ISC results were announced on Thursday. Not only did he secure an impressive 93 percent aggregate, but he also achieved a perfect 99 out of 100 in environmental studies. Remarkably, he accomplished this feat without the assistance of a scribe.
Technology as an Enabler
Ashwin relied solely on a basic laptop equipped with Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA), a free screen-reader application that audibly reads typed text. He stated, 'I started using technology from a very young age and received training at an NGO on how to use mobile phones and laptops to my advantage. During the exam, a fellow student read out the questions, and I typed my answers.' He plans to pursue a BSc Honours degree in Environmental Studies.
Eliminating the Scribe Challenge
Users and experts highlight that accessibility technology not only removes the cumbersome process of finding a scribe but also fosters self-reliance among people with disabilities. Suman Gayen, an employee at Vidya Sagar, shared his experience: 'Finding a scribe is challenging. Even if we find one, there are approval criteria to meet. It is always better to write answers ourselves as it enhances independence.' Gayen used similar technology to complete his postgraduate exams in 2024.
Growing Adoption in Exams
The trend extends beyond Ashwin and Suman. The Tamil Nadu government now permits students with disabilities to carry computers to competitive exams, leading to a steady increase in technology usage. Ram Kamal, Managing Trustee of Chakshumathi, an organization promoting inclusive digital education, explained: 'There are numerous technologies available—from electromechanical braille displays that convert on-screen text to braille, to augmentative and alternative communication tools for those with cerebral palsy. Facilitating their usage offers immense advantages, helping individuals secure jobs at top firms, conduct research, and achieve unprecedented heights.'
Creating Inclusive Spaces
Raguram from Karna Vidyalaya, an NGO empowering visually impaired individuals, emphasized that technology helps create an inclusive environment for children with disabilities. 'The use of technology grooms students. Our STREAM programme (Science, Technology, Right Living, English, Arts, and Maths) incorporates right living to aid personality development through technology for children with disabilities,' he added.
Call for Policy-Centric Approach
Activists welcome these developments and laud successful students but urge a policy-driven approach. S. Namburajan, State General Secretary of the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled, stated: 'The policy for persons with disabilities envisions such a future. However, the responsibility should not fall solely on NGOs. It is the government's duty to make technology accessible to all students in the field.'
