Summary

Makaia has implemented Information and Communication Technologies for Development Projects (ICT4D) working with vulnerable populations in Colombia for 6 years. Since 2011 Makaia has been working with people with disabilities through ICT trainings that develop their skills and competences of people with disabilities in order for them to be able to take advantage of personal, familiar, social and economic development opportunities.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

People with disabilities face important barriers to face superior education that enables them their development. ICTs generate development opportunities for them at an economic, recreational and persona level. However in many cases ICTs do not adapt to the specific circumstances of people with physical and cognitive disabilities. This lack of access to these tools denies them the possibility to fully seize opportunities that can improve their life.

How will this project solve this problem?

The Project contemplates a coordinated work with other organizations in order to offer trainings in ICT as relevant tools for people with disabilities to improve their living conditions as well as vocational trainings that guide them toward their integral development. Additionally the project includes the development and use of technological support devices, which are specifically designed to reduce the difficulties of people with physical disabilities when they use the ICTs.

Potential Long Term Impact

The Project delivers ICT as tools for people with disabilities in order for them to develop their economic projects (microbusinesses and employability), their personal dimensions (acknowledgement of their rights and duties, proper use of leisure time) and their academic projects (access to information and knowledge, content development). All of the above will enable people with disabilities to have an active role in the society and reduce the opportunity access gap the face in their daily lives.

Project Message

I want to learn more about technology to teach other deaf people because ICTs are a tool for deaf people to get in touch with the world. I would like to learn about digital design and video edit.
- Walter Alexander Jaramillo Florez, 24 year old beneficiary

Funding Information

Total Funding Received to Date: $4,500
Remaining Goal to be Funded: $500
Total Funding Goal: $5,000

Resources

http://www.makaia.org
Makaia Official Website
Information about the project and achievements
Video. ICT Training for Deaf People

Source: http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/inclusion-for-people-with-disa...