Persons with visual and hearing impairments from 28 districts across Uganda have completed a two-week intensive digital skills training under the ICT4 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) project, an initiative funded by the Uganda Communications Commission in partnership with the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) and implemented by Eight Tech Consults Ltd.
Conducted between 12th and 24th July 2025, the project was implemented across several districts, including Mbale, Soroti, Mubende, Masaka, Wakiso, Bugweri, Lira, Busia, Butaleja, Ishaka, Hoima, Sheema, Gulu, Tororo, Arua, Kabarole, Iganga, Mukono, Moroto, and Terego.
Training scope covered a broad range of modules, including Understanding Disabilities, Introduction to Digital Devices, Inclusivity, Accessibility Features and Tools, Use of Basic Digital Applications, Communication Using Internet, Email and Social Media, E-services, and Online Safety.
According to Ms. Amanya Immaculate from UCC, the rapid advancement of technology has disproportionately benefited those without disabilities, leaving many persons with disabilities at risk of being left behind. “The world of technology is advancing rapidly, and unfortunately, those without disabilities are benefiting far more than those with disabilities,” said Ms. Amanya Immaculate from UCC, “That’s why we are committed to bringing digital literacy services closer to persons with disabilities, to ensure they are not left behind in this digital era.” She added.
“Our vision is a fully inclusive and intelligent system that not only collects data but also guides service provision in real-time,” noted Ssekito Baker, the Project Manager who also doubles as the Chief Operations Officer at 8 Tech Consultancy. Adding that, “When a person with a visual impairment sends their first email or accesses a digital government service on their own, it is more than empowerment, it is liberation.”
A participant with visual impairment is assisted in learning keyboard navigation
The initiative is a collaboration between UCC, the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU), and Eight Tech Consults Ltd, all working to create a digitally inclusive Uganda where no one is left behind.
PWDs leaders commended the organizers for the empowering effort, but also made a heartfelt appeal for continued support. “We are thankful for this training, but we kindly request UCC, NUDIPU, and Eight Tech Consults Ltd to provide us with assistive devices like smartphones and laptops, and to increase the number of training days,” said Godfrey Kimuli, a visually impaired trainee.
As digital literacy becomes essential in all facets of life, the ICT4 Persons with Disabilities project is paving the way for a more inclusive approach to achieving the country’s digital agenda, bridging gaps in opportunity, autonomy, and inclusion.”
The program, funded under the UCUSAF IV grant framework, sets out to scale past pilot projects with a multi-pronged strategy structured into nine detailed work packages. These range from digital literacy training and data profiling to local innovation incubation and a revamp of the National Persons with Disabilities Observatory, a central data and service platform for PWDs.
Work Package 1 involves upgrading the National Digital Observatory to include AI-powered chatbots, an advanced data analytics engine, and a virtual call center complete with sign language support. This, coupled with a migration to Software as a Service (SaaS) infrastructure, is expected to drastically enhance access and usability.
To ensure longevity, the program includes capacity-building for local OPDs, a sustainability framework backed by diverse funding channels, and integration with Uganda’s national digital transformation agenda. Policy advocacy will push for inclusion within frameworks like Vision 2040, the National ICT Strategy, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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