How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world

Special How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
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A blind Saudi man recites from a braille copy of the Qu’ran in a mosque on the first day of Ramadan in Qatif, Saudi Arabia. (Right)
Special How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
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A blind Saudi man reads aloud from a braille copy of the Qur'an inside a mosque on the first day of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in the coastal town of Qatif, Eastern Province, on May 27, 2017. (AFP file)
Special How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
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The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has teamed up with the National Association of the Blind “Kafeef” to launch an initiative for the translation of Diriyah’s history into Braille. (DGDA photo)
Special How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
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Braille Qur'an at Nabawi (Prophet's Mosque) n Madinah. (Shutterstock)
Special How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
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Saudi Arabia's postal office commemorated the braille in 1981 with stamps. (Supplied)
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Updated 04 February 2023

How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world

How digital boost for braille literacy is helping people with visual impairments across the Arab world
  • Prices of once expensive electronic braille devices are falling, demand for software is growing
  • Educators in Saudi Arabia are adopting assistive tech to include students with visual disabilities

JEDDAH: Digital technologies are transforming the way in which people of all languages and backgrounds communicate, making work, study and socializing across national and cultural boundaries easier and more inclusive.

However, many of the latest innovations in communications technology have tended to be geared toward smartphones, tablets and e-readers — formats that are not always conducive to people with visual impairments.




French inventor Louis Braille. (Supplied)

Now, recent enhancements to a 200-year-old system of writing are helping people with visual disabilities feel included in a greater variety of jobs and fields of study and forms of entertainment.

French inventor Louis Braille, who lost his sight at the age of three, in 1824 developed a system of communication consisting of a code of 63 characters, each made up of one to six raised dots arranged in a six-position matrix or cell, designed to fit under a fingertip.

These characters, known as braille, are embossed in lines on paper and read by passing the fingers lightly over the manuscript. From alphabets to musical notation, braille opened a world of possibilities for the visually impaired.

According to the World Health Organization, around 40 million people worldwide are blind, while another 250 million have some form of visual impairment. A survey conducted in 2017 by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Statistics found that some 811,610 Saudis are visually impaired.

A unified Arabic braille code was adopted in the 1950s as part of the move toward a universal braille system. This has allowed many of them to live, work and study unsupported.




The Arabic braille alphabet. (Shutterstock image)

Authorities in the Kingdom have taken measures to create a more inclusive society, using braille on the packaging of medicines and by establishing work programs to integrate the visually impaired into the workforce.

The Kingdom has also established branches of Al-Noor Institute for the Blind, which provide courses for school children, in addition to integrated classes in universities through a national program that guarantees the right to an education.




A student at a school for the blind in Riyadh is pictured operating a machine in a photograph taken on April 25, 1967. (Getty Images)

Speaking to Arab News, Khaled Al-Harbi, spokesperson for the National Association of the Blind, known as Kafeef, said education paved the way for those with special needs to become an integral part of their communities.

Kafeef’s mission, he said, is to empower people with visual impairments through programs launched in coordination with government and private entities.

“I, like many members, received moral support and guidance from Kafeef from a young age, and enrolled in programs,” Al-Harbi told Arab News.

“We were provided tools, learned new skills using our hands, and, with time, we launched several awareness programs and braille training courses for the visually impaired and visually acute with the latest — Iqra — the first certified braille training program.

“We’ve seen lately several initiatives that target the community, such as sending gift cards in braille, and it’s very commendable, but it can also go the other way. There is a need for more inclusion from the visually impaired to utilize technology for their benefit and the benefit of the community.”




Tech advances in audio software and screen-reading programs on computers and smartphones have made life easier for the visually impaired. (Shutterstock)

As digital developers have tended to prioritize audio software, such as screen-reading programs on computers and smartphones, some argue that braille has become a less important tool for people with visual impairments.

However, researchers believe learning braille from an early age can greatly improve literacy, as it is a much better way to understand punctuation, grammar, and spelling than using audio resources alone.

For many years, electronic braille devices were prohibitively expensive, placing them out of reach of many people with visual impairments, particularly those in developing countries. Now prices are beginning to fall and the demand for new software is growing.




VersaBraille by American manufacturer TeleSensory Corporation was first made commercially available in 1982. (Wikipedia)

The first braille displays appeared in the mid-1970s, and the first commercially produced braille display, the VersaBraille, was released in 1982. Five years later, the Braille ‘n Speak was released as the first portable notetaker.

Newer refreshable braille devices make it possible for users to read text from a digital screen when connected to a PC, tablet or phone. Such devices mimic the familiar raised dot patterns using tiny movable pins.

FASTFACTS

811,000 people in Saudi Arabia have some form of vision disability, according to the GSTAT Disability Survey 2017.

A unified Arabic braille code was adopted in the 1950s as part of the move toward a universal braille system.

However, with such a heavy reliance on cables and bluetooth connectivity, these systems are not always the most practical or user friendly. Furthermore, physical braille keyboards that allow users to enter text are not particularly mobile.

It was these drawbacks that led Google to develop its own innovative built-in keyboard called TalkBack, which comes as a part of the Android Operating System and does not require any external hardware.

In 2018, Google also launched an AI-powered app called Lookout to help low-vision users interact with their surroundings. The app can read signs and labels, scan barcodes, and even identify currencies.

In 2014, Apple introduced its own on-screen braille keyboard for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices called iBrailler Notes.

The app enables users to navigate across text and perform tasks without connecting additional hardware. One striking feature of the app is that the keys automatically form around the fingertips when they are placed on the screen.




iBraille Notes on-screen braille keyboard by Apple. (Social media)

Many new braille technologies are yet to reach the market and several are still in the conceptual or prototype phase. New scanning features, audio descriptions, language identifiers, machine-learning tools, text mining, and speech processors could all soon appear in forthcoming assistive technologies.

Abdulrahman Al-Atawi, a professor at the college of computing and informatics and supervisor of the Center for Innovation in E-learning at the Saudi Electronic University, the first university in the Kingdom to exclusively adopt e-learning strategies and technologies, told Arab News that such technologies will play a significant part in students’ journeys.

In January, the Global Trends in E-Learning forum was held in Riyadh, where global leaders in the education sector shared their insights, exchanged experiences and discussed strategies to serve the online learning process.




The two-day Global Trends in E-Learning event that took place in Riyadh on Feb. 21-23 brought together resource persons and participants from 20 countries and 50 companies. (AN file photo)

As part of the forum’s objectives, a contest for EdTech entrepreneurs, faculty and students from across the Kingdom showcased innovative projects using emerging technologies to serve the education sector.

Al-Atawi, who also headed the Committee for the Innovation Oasis and GTEL Demofest, said some of the winning projects were focused on people with special needs.

“For many, the braille code allows the blind and visually impaired to read any form of writing, but when it comes to images and pictures, that’s another story,” he said.

“One of the winning projects, a smart reader for the visually impaired, found a solution to that, verbally describing that image.

“In this era of modern science, we wish to get every bit of information in digital form. With the right tools, we can help members of the special needs community.”

 


Umrah pilgrims must book via app, says Saudi interior ministry

Umrah pilgrims must book via app, says Saudi interior ministry
Updated 22 March 2023

Umrah pilgrims must book via app, says Saudi interior ministry

Umrah pilgrims must book via app, says Saudi interior ministry

JEDDAH: Pilgrims who wish to perform the Muslim Umrah ritual are now required to reserve an appointment via the Nusuk or Tawakkalna apps, the Saudi interior ministry announced on Tuesday.

“The Umrah security plan for (this) year included managing and organizing crowds and traffic, providing humanitarian services, supporting and empowering the entities participating in implementing the plan, and distributing manpower,” said Director of Public Security Lt. Gen. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami.

He said that there were a “sufficient” number of bookings available, and called on pilgrims to adhere to their specific dates, all of which were being organized in coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.

He was speaking to reporters during a press conference for the leaders of the Umrah security forces on the ministry’s plans and preparations for this year’s Umrah season at the 911 Unified Operations Center in Makkah, the state-run SPA news agency reported.

“The expected densities in public transport stations at the entrances to Makkah and the vicinity of the Third Ring Road and next to the Holy Mosque of Makkah were taken into account, and the paths were reorganized to ensure crowd movement safety,” Al-Bassami said.

He stressed the importance of wearing face masks to preserve public health and in compliance with instructions for preventive measures and health regulations.

Al-Bassami said that large crowds would be directed accordingly and beggars who entered these sites would be dealt with firmly and strictly.

Director-General of Civil Defense Maj. Gen. Hammoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj said: “The General Directorate of Civil Defense has completed its preparations in all sites frequented by pilgrims and visitors to ensure readiness, fire prevention and protection, especially in areas that witness high density.”

He said that the Civil Defense had coordinated with authorities to take legal measures by applying regulations and controlling violations.

Al-Faraj said that the directorate was ready for intensive deployment around the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, and important sites through safety inspectors and support forces.

He praised the fire and rescue services in Makkah, Madinah, the holy site centers, and the deployment of mobile units at specific times.

Al-Faraj also praised the creation of a number of rapid intervention teams, especially in the central area in Makkah, around the Prophet’s Mosque and other vital sites.

Maj. Gen. Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, deputy director-general of the General Directorate of Passports, said that his authority had worked on early social and technical preparations and equipment for the Umrah season, developed plans and executive programs, raised media awareness, enhanced communication, and supported and assisted operating agencies for pilgrims.

He said that the directorate had completed its operational preparations by equipping ports with manpower and modern technologies to easily complete the procedures for pilgrims at all international ports, through qualified staff that spoke a number of languages to guide visitors to adhere to Umrah instructions.


King Salman sends best wishes for Ramadan to Saudi citizens and all Muslims

King Salman sends best wishes for Ramadan to Saudi citizens and all Muslims
Updated 22 March 2023

King Salman sends best wishes for Ramadan to Saudi citizens and all Muslims

King Salman sends best wishes for Ramadan to Saudi citizens and all Muslims
  • It came as he chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting, during which ministers reviewed the outcome of recent meetings and approved a number of international agreements

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman on Tuesday sent his best wishes for Ramadan to citizens of the Kingdom and Muslims everywhere, expressing his hope that the holy month will bring hope and peace to Muslims and the entire world.

He instructed authorities involved in providing services for visitors to the Two Holy Mosques to continue to work with the highest levels of efficiency and excellence to ensure that pilgrims can perform their rituals with ease and tranquility, the Saudi press Agency reported.

The king was speaking as he chaired the weekly Cabinet session at Irqah Palace in Riyadh, after the Supreme Court announced that Ramadan would begin on Thursday.

Minister of Media Salman Al-Dosari said ministers reviewed a number of issues that were discussed during meetings involving senior Saudi officials in the past week that aimed to develop relations and cement the regional and international status and role of the Kingdom.

Ministers reviewed Saudi Arabia’s participation during the 49th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, during which its representatives affirmed the Kingdom’s continued support for joint action, particularly in the humanitarian and development fields, and its unwavering stance in support of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect worldwide.

The Cabinet noted the Kingdom’s pledge, during an International Donors’ Conference in Brussels on Monday, to support the victims of the earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria, help mitigate the effects of the disaster, and assist the recovery process.

Ministers affirmed that such efforts reflect the Kingdom’s constant commitment to showing solidarity with communities in need around the world and helping to address their needs.

The Council of Ministers said that recent positive evaluations by credit-rating agencies of the Kingdom’s economy reflected the effectiveness of the reforms implemented by the state, including the development of public-finance management, improvements to the quality of financial planning, and the more efficient use of resources under the financial sustainability program.

Al-Dosari said that the fact the Kingdom climbed 15 places on the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index 2022 is a reflection of the continued interest in and support for upgrading the quality of the research, development and innovation sector, which is helping to enhance the Kingdom’s global competitiveness and leadership in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The Cabinet approved a memorandum of understanding for cultural cooperation between the Saudi and Mexican cultural ministries, and another relating to the digital economy between the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and its Chinese counterpart.

It also authorized the minister of Islamic affairs, dawah and guidance to sign a draft memorandum of understanding in the field of Islamic affairs with the Somali Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs.

Ministers approved two agreements with South Africa, one for cooperation in a feasibility study for establishing a joint fund to encourage direct investment, and another for cooperation in the field of maritime transport.

They authorized the minister of transport and logistics and the chairman of the board of directors of the General Authority of Civil Aviation to sign a draft agreement for air services with the Polish government.

The Cabinet also authorized the chairman of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission to sign a draft cooperation agreement for the evaluation and accreditation of Arab language curricula and programs with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization.

Ministers approved an agreement between the Saudi Public Prosecution Office and its Tajik counterpart for combating terrorism and its financing, money laundering, and other related offenses.

They also added the Human Rights Commission to the membership of the secondment and employment committee of regional and international organizations and bodies, and approved amendments to a bylaw for protecting personal data.


Ramadan Season to take place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah throughout holy month

Ramadan Season to take place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah throughout holy month
Updated 22 March 2023

Ramadan Season to take place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah throughout holy month

Ramadan Season to take place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah throughout holy month
  • The series of events aim to celebrate aspects of the Kingdom’s historical and cultural heritage that relate in particular to Ramadan

RIYADH: Ramadan Season, a series of cultural experiences and events organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, will take place in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah throughout the holy month.

The season aims to celebrate aspects of the Kingdom’s historical and cultural heritage that relate in particular to Ramadan, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

A wide range of events and activities are scheduled, including Qur’an-memorizing competitions, calligraphy workshops, outdoor cinemas, puppet theaters, interactive art events and a volleyball championship.

They will take place at a number of locations and venues in each of the cities, which will also offer Saudi coffee, food stalls, cafes, and shops selling Ramadan sweets, ornaments and other traditional products.

 


Saudi FM holds foreign policy discussion with researchers

Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting with thinkers and researchers in Riyadh. (Twitter @KSAMOFA)
Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting with thinkers and researchers in Riyadh. (Twitter @KSAMOFA)
Updated 21 March 2023

Saudi FM holds foreign policy discussion with researchers

Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting with thinkers and researchers in Riyadh. (Twitter @KSAMOFA)
  • The session’s talks covered the main aims and objectives of Saudi foreign policy

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Tuesday met with thinkers and researchers to discuss priorities in relation to the Kingdom’s policies abroad.

The session’s talks covered the main aims and objectives of Saudi foreign policy, its role in helping create the conditions for achieving the goals of Vision 2030, consolidating security and stability in the country and wider region, and strengthening partnerships with other nations.

 

 


Riyadh conference to focus on AI in healthcare

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh. (SPA)
King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh. (SPA)
Updated 21 March 2023

Riyadh conference to focus on AI in healthcare

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh. (SPA)
  • The conference will focus on applied artificial intelligence in healthcare, presenting cutting-edge technologies

RIYADH: The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh will on May 16 host a digital health conference with delegates attending from around the world.

More than 50 speakers from leading healthcare markets and thousands of attendees from at least 15 participating countries are expected to gather in the city for the event.

The conference will focus on applied artificial intelligence in healthcare, presenting cutting-edge technologies and showcasing its benefits in promoting best practices for healthcare safety, cost-effectivity, sustainability, and practicality.

The two-day meeting will include exhibitions, workshops, panel sessions, and sections on emerging technology.

Osama Alswailem, chief information officer at the center, said: “The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center believes in emerging technologies and the power of AI in advancing regional healthcare toward better care quality, efficient operations, and better patient experiences.

“These technologies complement the continuous digital healthcare transformation the country is undertaking.

“This conference will converge world-class thought leaders, digital solutions, and technologies to innovate and disrupt the current healthcare models,” he added.