Shillong, Mar 6: An accessible science lab was inaugurated at Jyoti Sroat School, under Bethany Society here today, which is expected to benefit more than 160 students by providing them with new opportunities to explore science and mathematics in an inclusive learning environment.
The initiative was established in collaboration with Vision Empower, a non-profit organisation dedicated to making STEM education accessible for children with visual impairment.
The lab has been specially designed to enable children with visual impairment to learn scientific concepts through touch, sound, and other sensory experiences. With the help of tactile models, audio-supported diagrams, and assistive learning devices, students can now engage with subjects that are often taught visually in traditional classrooms. The lab aims to promote experiential learning and ensure that science education becomes more inclusive and accessible for all learners.
North Eastern Council Director (Administration) and in-charge Director (Tourism and Industries) L. S. Gangte inaugurated the lab in the presence of Bethany Society Secretary Dr. Carmo Noronha and Executive Director Padma Shri Bertha G.Dkhar.
During the event, students demonstrated several accessible learning tools and models available in the lab. Using tactile diagrams along with Iris, an audio device designed to support the understanding of tactile graphics, students explained scientific concepts such as the human digestive system. They also showcased an accessible model illustrating the concept of day and night as well as the formation of eclipses. In addition, students presented Hexis, a refreshable Braille reading device that allows learners with visual impairment to independently access digital educational content.
Speaking on the occasion, Gangte remarked that during his childhood much of the learning was based on rote methods with limited opportunities for hands-on experiences. He expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that such accessible and interactive tools will greatly enhance the learning experience of children with visual impairment.
