One of the main aims of this program is to introduce the visually impaired persons into the main stream of Society. We are running a Vocational Training Centre which gives training to visually impaired and disabled persons in furniture re-caning, preparation of umbrellas, lotion, & soap and bottling of other cleaning materials, computer operation, etc. After training, the adult persons are supported by NAB by obtaining orders from Governmental/Non governmental agencies.
In a world that is increasingly driven by technology, access to computer education is crucial for unlocking opportunities and fostering independence. The visually impaired community faces unique challenges in acquiring these essential skills, limiting their access to employment and social inclusion. EmpowerEDU, an ambitious initiative by the Kerala State Branch of The National Association For The Blind, is designed to break down these barriers and empower visually impaired individuals through a comprehensive 6-month job-oriented computer training program.
The primary goal of EmpowerEDU is to equip visually impaired individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital age. By focusing on computer literacy, mobility training, soft skills development, and English language proficiency, the program aims to enhance employibility and foster self-reliance among participants.
Vocational Training & Rehabilitation:
One of the main aims of this program is to introduce the visually impaired persons into the main stream of Society. We are running a Vocational Training Centre which gives training to visually impaired and disabled persons in furniture re-caning, preparation of umbrellas, lotion, & soap and bottling of other cleaning materials, computer operation, etc. After training, the adult persons are supported by NAB by obtaining orders from Governmental/Non governmental agencies.
Prevention of Blindness and other Disabilities:
Camps were conducted in rural areas in different parts of the State to identify persons, particularly children, needing attention in respect of health care and providing required helps. During such camps special attention is given to create awareness among the people about hygienic life, nutritious food etc. so as to enable to lead a better life preventing blindness and other disabilities to the extent possible.
Client Service Unit:
There are different facilities provided by the Government for persons with disabilities including concession in traveling expenses, free medical care, legal assistance etc. There have been numerous cases of beneficiaries not being able to avail such facilities due to lack of awareness or for want of assistance to obtain the documents required for availing them. KSB-NAB provides required assistances in such cases & provide counseling & guidance.
NAB LIC Group Insurance Scheme:
Associating with LIC of India we are providing insurance coverage to selected number of visually challenged persons. During 2023-24 we have provided insurance coverage to 131 persons.
Care & Therapy Centre:
Care & Therapy Centre is for taking care of children with disabilities including those with multiple disabilities, to a limited extent, giving physiotherapy and training in mobility, communication etc. and also imparting awareness to parents on care required for improving life of such children.
Computer Learning Centre:
KSB-NAB has been imparting computer education to visually challenged with financial support from M/s. IBS Software Pvt Ltd. This is an ongoing program.
Mobility Training Centre:
Our centre takes pride in offering personalized & comprehensive mobility training. Our expert instructors understand the unique needs of individuals with visual impairments & formulate programs to enhance their mobility skills. From mastering the proper techniques of white cane usage visually impaired can navigate various environments with confidence. Our curriculum is designed to empower each participant on their personal journey towards independence.
Special Service Project for Children in the Rural Area:
KSB-NAB has been conducting camps in rural areas to identify persons with disabilities requiring support,particularly children belonging to BPL families & provide medical, therapeutic & financial support to the extent possible. The rural project started in Nemom Block Panchayat in 2019-20 was interrupted by the pandemic Covid-19. This could not be resumed due to financial constraints. Recently our students collected fund to support the children in rural area. A project was implemented by them at Aryankav Panchayat where dresses, school bags, tiffins, books, umbrella etc were donated to all the children at the Panchayat.
Music Troop:
A music troop ‘The Voice of NAB Kerala’ had been formed earlier with talented singers among our Trainees and some training in music was given to them, with intention of developing it into a full-fledged professional troop. This program which was affected by the Covid pandemic is now resumed.
Audio Recording & Publishing:
The Audio Recording Studio functioning at KSB-NAB enables preparation of text books and study materials in audio format for the use of visually challenged students. In this facility we prepare audio version of text books and study materials for various academic courses, entrance examinations and other competitive tests & published through WhatsApp & Telegram.
YouTube Channel ‘DRISHYAM NAB’:
KSB-NAB is maintaining the YouTube Channel ‘DRISHYAM NAB’ in which audio recordings covering various subjects like Current Affairs, Science & Technology News, Entertainment, Health & Lifestyle and Editorials from the leading Dailies are being published daily. A digital weekly magazine containing the recordings of a week is collated and published on Google Drive. We are also maintaining the Face Book Account with posts on important activities of KSB-NAB.
Sound Recording & Editing Course:
This course is intended to impart training in Sound Recording & Editing, so as to enable the Trainees to work in this field.
Projects taken up with IBS support:
Life Skills Development Training for Visually Challenged Persons and Persons with Multiple Disabilities & Audio Recording Studio are major projects undertaken with the support of M/s. IBS Software Pvt Ltd. Almost 70 visually impaired attended the class. IBS volunteers visited NAB & interacted with students & familiarized the activities of the visually impaired. Our students also got an experience visiting the IBS campus.
Empower Edu:
The primary goal of Empower EDU is to equip visually impaired individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital age. By focusing on computer literacy, mobility training, soft skills development, and English language proficiency, the program aims to enhance employability and foster self-reliance among participants.
Noon Meal Program:
Another program implemented successfully by KSB-NAB with the sponsorship of life members is Noon Meal Program. This program started on 01/02/2024. By this program KSB- NAB provides noon meals to the visually impaired persons from outside as well as those visually impaired students of KSB-NAB.
Computer Literacy:
Covering fundamentals of computer operation, software usage, and accessibility tools tailored for the visually impaired.
Mobility Training:
Empowering participants with orientation and mobility skills to navigate both physical and digital environments confidently.
Soft Skills Development:
Providing essential interpersonal and professional skills to enhance workplace adaptability and communication.
English Language Proficiency:
Improving English language skills crucial for employment and social integration.
