By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 15: With the objective of highlighting the significance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and empowerment for the visually impaired, an awareness programme was organised on Wednesday by the Equal Opportunity Cell (EOC) and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Shillong College, in collaboration with the Blind Lead Trust (BLT), in observance of World White Cane Safety Day.
Held under the inspiring theme of “The world has no limit: explore the world with senses,” the event kicked off with a welcome address by Dr S Khongwir, Principal of Shillong College, who also felicitated the resource person, Jitendra Dkhar, Managing Director of Blind Lead Trust.
In his interactive session, Dkhar introduced the mission and work of the Blind Lead Trust, emphasising the organization’s efforts to empower visually impaired individuals through training, technology, and advocacy. The presentation explored how true independence is achieved through the adaptation of other senses like sound, touch, and smell which are beyond the limits of sight.
The programme’s highlight was an interactive interview with visually impaired people, such as Hermies Daw, who talked about his own experiences using the white cane to get around in daily life. The conversation clarified the difficulties encountered by the community of people with visual impairments and the significance of establishing inclusive public areas.
The sighted students were then asked to volunteer for the activities and using a blindfold and white cane, student volunteers experienced navigating through touch and sound during a hands-on sensory exploration exercise that wrapped up the session. Participants’ empathy and comprehension of the experiences of the visually impaired were enhanced by this captivating exercise.
The programme ended with a vote of thanks delivered by P Kharkrang, Convener of the EOC, who expressed gratitude to all participants, the Blind Lead Trust team, and the college community for making the event a success.
