Sherab Lhamo

Meto (named changed), a person with cerebral palsy who cannot speak, navigates the world primarily using her thumb and smartphone. She communicates with family, friends, and others through text messages or by spelling out words on their palms.

Younten Jamtsho, a person with low vision and a programme officer at Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan, shared the significant role technology plays in his life.

“Technology has made my life easier and more independent,” he said. “Apps like NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA), a free and open-source screen reader, have been invaluable in my work.”

As per national health survey 2023, 6.8 percent (around 47,000 Bhutanese) live with some form of disability.

He said he primarily relied on apps that convert text to speech but he said that when in terms of dzongkha language as the apps are made in another country, it cannot detect the language which is a challenge.

He added that for the illiterate, it is very difficult.

Navigating websites and online documents remains a challenge due to the lack of accessibility features, Younten pointed out. Many websites are not designed for screen readers, forcing users to rely on external apps. He suggested that incorporating keyboard shortcuts into web design would significantly improve accessibility for people with low vision.

While iPhones are expensive, he noted, they offer more accessibility features than other smartphones, making them a preferred choice for those with low vision.

“Assistive technologies are crucial for my independence and quality of life,” said Pema Chhogyel, a person with blindness. “Screen readers on my laptop allow me to access information, read books, browse the internet, create documents, and use social media—essentially everything I need to do. I rely heavily on my phone, using the voice over feature throughout the day.”

Using his laptop and Braille Note, he develops office documents, makes presentations, reads books, listens to music, browses the internet, and reads documents using the EVO reader. He even experiments with recording music.

Pema Chhogyel highlighted the significant challenges persons with disabilities (PWD) in Bhutan face in accessing assistive technology. While open-source options like NVDA and Narrator are available, many prefer commercial software like JAWS for its advanced features, despite its high cost.

Limited access to professional training on new technologies further hinders effective use. Additionally, the availability and affordability of high-end devices such as Lumin Glasses, Glide, and advanced Braille note-takers remain major barriers.

“Despite these challenges, PWDs have a strong desire to explore emerging technologies, including AI-powered tools, and even dream of experiencing innovations like Tesla’s self-driving cars in Bhutan,” said Pema Chhogyel.

Prashanti Pradhan, executive director of Phensem Parents Support Group, shared how technology enhances her son’s learning. With low vision, he uses an access switch mouse—designed for those with limited upper limb mobility—to navigate PowerPoint presentations with embedded audio stories. This allows him to learn independently at his own pace.

She is also teaching him to use voice assistant technology like Alexa—a smart voice recognition system that can play music, set alarms, control smart devices like lights and TVs, and provide information.

Prashanti said that while advocating for assistive technology in Bhutan, she observed that many parents in rural areas are unaware of it. She explained that the term is often misunderstood as something highly technical when, in reality, it simply refers to any tool or device that helps PWDs function more easily.

“For example, a spoon with an adjustable hand-cuff utensil holder strap is considered assistive technology for individuals with cerebral palsy or limited hand mobility, as it enables them to eat independently,” she said.

Pema Chhogyel said assistive technologies are crucial for independent living. Screen readers empower him to access information, work effectively, and stay connected. He stressed the importance of continuous learning to adapt to new technologies and avoid digital exclusion.

“Technology has been instrumental in helping me achieve my goals and contribute equally to society,” he said.