22-year-old Naresh Kumar Meena lives in Dausa, Rajasthan. He was one and a half months old when his parents discovered his blindness. Despite being from a humble background, his father, a truck driver, encouraged his son to study like other children. Naresh finished his schooling from a special institute for the blind in Jaipur. Here, he was assisted by a scribe to write his exams. 

He enrolled for his graduation in Jawahar Lal Nehru University and also aspired to become an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer someday. But given the growing technology and competitive environment, Naresh lacked the independence and resources to survive.

Before he reached out to the Eyeway Helpdesk, he managed to study by recording notes wherever possible. Our counselor realised that a smartphone could help him a great deal in active participation and access to academic material. Eyeway also connected him to Deepstambh Foundation which offers tuitions for IAS prelims. 

As for the smartphone, the counselor contacted several organizations and individuals through a dedicated mailing group. Fortunately, an NGO came forward to give financial assistance to Naresh so he could buy a useful phone. This assistive device will enable him to access online classes, browse resources on the internet and take notes easily. The device will also aid in navigation and mobility through several mobile applications available for visually impaired users. 

At a time, when the pandemic has crippled the entire world, forcing them to operate virtually, many persons with disabilities who lack resources, find themselves left out from mainstream activities of education and employment. Mere provision of an assistive device and access to internet can do wonders, giving them a fair opportunity to thrive. 

Eyeway shows them the way, reaches out to those who can help, thereby empowering blind and visually impaired citizens to achieve personal independence. 

Team Eyeway