INES-Ruhengeri Strengthens Inclusive Education with Intensive Assistive Technology Training

INES-Ruhengeri has made a significant leap forward in its mission to create an inclusive higher education environment, hosting a comprehensive two-day training on assistive technologies. Held on March 26th and 27th, 2025, the "2nd Pilot Training on Disability and Inclusion" was a crucial component of the ANSWER Project (Advance Inclusion for Students with Disabilities in Higher Education in Rwanda), focusing on "The Effective Way Forward in the Journey of Inclusion in Higher Education in Rwanda."

This intensive session, presented by Mr. NIYONZIMA William, a technical staff member from the Students’ Support Centre, provided participants with vital practical experience and fostered collaborative discussions. The event underscored INES-Ruhengeri's commitment to empowering students with disabilities through the effective use of advanced assistive tools.

The training included:

• Hands-on Experience:
• Participants engaged in practical exercises, testing and utilizing the various assistive technologies available at INES-Ruhengeri. This direct interaction allowed them to understand the capabilities and applications of tools such as the Magnilink Portable Magnifier, Everest-DV 5 Brailler Printer, and Trihear FM System.
• Collaborative Discussions:
• The training fostered discussions on the roles of students, academic staff, and administrative personnel in promoting the effective use of assistive technologies. Participants explored strategies for creating a more inclusive campus culture and ensuring that these tools are seamlessly integrated into the learning process.

"Assistive technologies refer to any device, software, or equipment that helps people with disabilities to perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible.," said NIYONZIMA William. "By providing hands-on experience and encouraging open dialogue, we are empowering our university community to create a truly inclusive environment."

The training reinforced INES-Ruhengeri's dedication to:

• Providing access to state-of-the assistive technologies.
• Fostering a collaborative environment where all members of the university community contribute to inclusivity.
• Promoting a deeper understanding of the needs of students with disabilities.

INES-Ruhengeri offers a range of assistive technologies designed to empower students by breaking down barriers and enhancing their ability to fully engage in their education, as listed below.

 Magnilink Portable Magnifier One V3 – A handheld electronic magnifier designed to assist individuals with low vision by enhancing text clarity.

 Brailler Printer (Embosser), Everest-DV 5 – Plays a crucial role in producing Braille materials for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Brilliant Braille 40 – A Braille display that enables individuals who are blind or visually impaired to read digital content in Braille.

 Victor Reader Stream – A portable media player tailored for individuals who are blind or have low vision, allowing easy access to audiobooks and documents.

  Trihear FM System – An assistive listening device designed to support students with hearing impairments by transmitting clear audio directly.

 Voice Recorders (74GB storage) – Capture entire lectures, lessons, or discussions without space limitations, ensuring students can revisit learning materials anytime.

Wireless Microphones – Enhance sound clarity by transmitting the speaker’s voice directly to a student’s phone, reducing background noise and distance barriers.

 Monocular Devices (Telescope MonoZoom) – Designed with a single lens for ease of use by individuals with visual impairments, allowing better focus on distant objects.

Below are photos showcasing hands-on practical sessions where participants engaged with various assistive technologies, gaining firsthand experience in their functionality and applications to support inclusive learning.