Magnon Ayiale

My Journey To Empowerment Through Assistive Technology

I used to believe that my visual impairment would limit my opportunities. However, with the support of assistive technology, I discovered a world of possibilities. When I first encountered Cyber School Technology, I was skeptical. How could a computer truly help me? But after receiving training and equipment, I realized the incredible potential of technology to empower individuals with disabilities.

Thanks to my laptop and specialized software, I was able to access educational materials, participate in online courses, and complete assignments. It was like a window to a world that had previously been closed to me. I felt more independent and confident than ever before. My grades also improved significantly, from 3.70 in my earlier years to 4.38 in my final university semester. This enabled me to graduate with a 2nd class upper degree, just three points short of a first class.

During my internship at Kuluva Mission Hospital in Arua district, I utilized my computer to effectively manage records, compose my end-of-internship report, and submit it electronically. Additionally, I provided a hard copy. The devices furnished by Cyber School Technology Solutions were instrumental in fulfilling my lecturer's requirements for both electronic and hard copy submissions. This enabled me to excel in my internship, earning an A and receiving recognition from my lecturer.

Assistive technology has not only helped me to overcome challenges but has also empowered me to pursue my dreams. I am now able to contribute to society in meaningful ways and inspire others with disabilities to believe in themselves. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and advocate for the importance of accessible technology.

Leveraging ICT Skills to Secure Employment and drive Independence and Self-Reliance

It is generally difficult to find employment today but it is even more difficult for persons living with disabilities. Many people applied for the opportunity with Light for the World, but the institution was seeking someone with skills and knowledge in ICT. The ICT skills I gained through Cyber School Technology Solutions were instrumental in securing the opportunity, as one of the key requirements was to collect partner data. My proficiency in using ICT helped me stand out from the competition.

As a visually impaired person, my greatest desires have been independence and self-reliance, where I no longer needed to rely solely on a personal assistant. With the ICT skills and assistive devices this is now a reality unlike during my school days where I relied on friends to type my notes and assignments. This often led to delays in submission of work. However, thanks to the assistive devices I received from Cyber School a laptop, focus blue and jaws software, I am now able to meet partners, ask questions, and record responses independently. I can capture partner data and information in a way that is accessible to other team members who cannot read braille. These devices also enable me to organize training materials and presentations for partner trainings on inclusion. In addition, this increased independence has also reduced my reliance on personal assistants, which can be costly. By performing tasks myself, I can control expenses and ensure that my services remain affordable.

In today's competitive world, all organizations are seeking to attract top talent. As a person living with a disability, it's essential to continuously sharpen your skills to stay competitive in the world of work.

Sharing Knowledge and Skills

As Individuals with disabilities, we need to continuously sharpen our skills, I have used the skills I gained to train my fellow colleagues who are visually impaired on how to use technology. One of them is an Administrative Assistant for Terego and Arua districts with National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIP).

Meeting Magnon, with his expertise, has rekindled my hope for greater independence in my work. Having lost my sight later in life, I struggled to adapt my previous computer skills to JAWS software. This made documentation difficult, and I relied heavily on personal assistants. Determined to improve my skills, I sought training. Initially, I had trouble finding suitable assistance, but when I met Magnon, my hope was renewed. In just three training sessions, I have already become familiar with my keyboard. I am excited about my progress and believe that with Magnon's continued support, I will soon be able to perform basic computer tasks independently.

Mercy Monicah Ocotoko

Through these trainings, I am able to earn an extra income for my transport. I also offer these services for free to other visually impaired persons, training them on how to use jaws and other assistive technologies.

Magnon taught me how to use a smartphone. Previously, I was unfamiliar with smartphones, but now I can read emails and messages from my employer and colleagues. He also generously shares his devices with us, as they are quite expensive for most of us. Magnon has taught me how to master the computer keyboard. He has provided all of this training free of charge.

Loice Maturu Light for the World

I also provide training on basic ICT skills to students at Nvara Secondary School in Arua City, a school specializing in education for students with disabilities.

Continuous Skill Development and Networking

Through the Cyber opportunity, I was able to expand my network and met someone who recommended and shared an African-wide 8 weeks ICT skills training provided by Access Tech Academy specifically for persons with disabilities. Currently, we are only 6 Ugandans on this program. The training is remote, so the devices have been crucial for accessing and participating. I first used my phone but found it difficult to access everything. The facilitators advised me to use a computer, which I fortunately already received from Cyber School.