Skill development for the blind launched

A city-based NGO has launched a skill development programme for the blind to enhance their employability quotient.

The four-month pilot project, launched by Score Foundation, aims at training 20 blind graduates who have recently passed out of various educational institutions.

"Presently we have 12 people enrolled with us who will be trained in computer skills, interpersonal skills and interdependent skills," Score Foundation CEO George Abraham told IANS.

"There is a perception about visually impaired not being useful to the community; corporate houses also don't look at them as a human resource. We want to change this perception," Abraham added.

The computer Skills module will focus on building the proficiency of trainees to an advanced level in the use of Microsoft Office suite with the aid of screen reading software like Jaws and NVDA. Mobility training would equip trainees with strategies to move independently within the workplace.

The skill development centre is based in south Delhi's Lajpat Nagar area.

"There are 600 blind students in Delhi University and most of them remain unemployable. There is a need for training centres for them," Abraham pointed out.

The organisation is also planning to tie up with corporate houses in January so that they hire the blind candidates.

Abraham said that the salary bracket for them would not be less than Rs.15,000 per month.

"We aim to train 60 people in a year," Abraham added.