Bhubaneswar, April 13: Visually challenged students of Utkal University were today given lessons on how to use the latest technology to help them get information easily. The programme was conducted by the Institute of Social Work and Research at the psychology department of the varsity.

The students were taught how a mobile handset could help them read newspapers, use a dictionary, talking books and even the global positioning system (GPS).

While the technology can be used both on the computer as well as mobile phones, the workshop focused on how to use the services on mobile phones, as they were more affordable. The mobile just requires the screen reading software, which converts text displayed on the screen into speech.

“This apart, learning how to use GPS on their mobile phones or computer will help them reach their destination without waiting for someone’s help. At times, it is very uncomfortable for the visually impaired to ask for directions. Many a time they are unsure if they will get a response at all. However, this system will help them gain more confidence,” said Prashant Verma, a resource person.

Such phones are available from Rs 8,000 onwards, said the organisers. For students who cannot afford such devices, there are some organisations, which can provide the mobile phones on loan, they said.

This apart, the students were taught Braille printing in Odia. Till now, the printing facilities were only available in English and Hindi.

Prior to the workshop held here, the team imparted training to a group of teachers under the Sarva Siksha Abhiyan in Cuttack yesterday.

The resource persons, however, concluded that the lack of awareness levels among the youth of Odisha was high. “There is almost no effort to help the visually challenged to adopt the new technology. If used properly, the definition of blind can change,” said Manocha. There are about 5,000 visually challenged students in the state.