In collaboration with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at it's 'Miyaheli 2019' Social Innovation Camp, Team Thaana Mallow successfully created its app 'Thaana Mallow', to ease access to online information written in the Maldivian script of 'thaana'.
In an unprecedented move, the app launched on Saturday, allows blind and visually impaired people to overcome long-standing difficulties by effectively translating Thaana content into Latin script, bridging inaccessible information to the community by allowing access to content via text-to-speech programmes and braille displays.
“This app has brought a great level of ease to the blind and visually impaired community. I have recently heard from blind students who previously needed assistance to access study materials during this lockdown, who are using this app to independently study", said Hussain Shareef, Leader behind Team Thaana Mallow.
"Access to information and breaking down barriers is important to us, and we are happy to help with this initiative"
“Australia is proud to support the talented leaders behind the Thaana Mallow app through the UNDP", said Australian High Commissioner David Holly.
"Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the connections that exist between all members of society. Innovative use of technology such as Thaana Mallow help guide towards an inclusive recovery."
The High Commissioner also extended congratulations on behalf of Australia, to the development team for "making this exciting contribution".
Supported by the government of Australia, UNDP Maldives and Ooredoo Maldives have collaboratively held Miyaheli camps since 2016, while its 2019 instalment was joined by Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services, Maldives Association of Persons with Disabilities (MAPD), Maldives Deaf Association, Wellness Association of Maldives and UNDP's 'Youth Co:Lab'.
The 2019 camp focused on innovative solutions to eliminate barriers faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWD). A particular area of importance was assigned to physical or environmental barriers, communication barriers and attitudinal barriers.
PWD's are often marginalized and have limited accessibility for transportation, public services, education, health and employment opportunities.
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