Authors:  Muntaha Farin, Razmin ImrozMd. Arif Hossain

In collaboration with:  MJF, Youth Engagement in Democracy, VIPS, GRM

Publication date: 2025

Executive Summary:

The study recognizes the significant impact of addressing challenges and barriers faced by Students with Visual Disabilities in utilizing technology for higher education, focusing on the
context of Bangladesh. The study underscores the growing opportunities for Persons with Visual Disabilities in using technology in higher education, inclusive policies, governmental initiatives,
and specialized training programs. The findings section, supported by both quantitative and qualitative data, unveils the financial challenges, device preferences, and barriers faced by
Students with Visual Disabilities in higher education which put forth a comprehensive set of strategies, spanning accessible course materials, teacher training, resource centers, and awareness
campaigns, aiming to create an inclusive and supportive environment for Students with Visual Disabilities.

The study employs a mixed methodology, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to investigate the challenges confronted by Students with Visual Disabilities in utilizing technology
for higher education, particularly in the context of Bangladesh. The research involves a systematic literature review and a multi-staged approach, including a survey with 71 participants from diverse educational backgrounds at universities and colleges across Bangladesh. Two FGD and two key informant interviews further supplement the qualitative aspect. The research analyzes challenges such as the cost of assistive technology, training, resource centers, classroom management, technological barriers, admission processes, availability of accessible course materials, technological devices, and teacher attitudes. The mixed methodology provides a comprehensive understanding of the issues faced by students with visual disabilities, contributing valuable insights for interventions to improve Technology accessibility in higher education. the study’s findings present a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by Students with Visual Disabilities in Bangladesh regarding Technology adoption for higher education. The quantitative data reveals financial constraints affecting 75.36% of participants emphasizing the
need for cost-effective alternatives. A high dependence on smartphones (67.95%) underscores the importance of mobile-compatible solutions. Despite technical training (89.74%), perceived
efficacy is at 60%, suggesting potential deficiencies. Admission process difficulties (96.56%) and dissatisfaction with Resource centers (64.79%) highlight barriers. Qualitative data accentuates
financial challenges, the absence of a native TTS system, and the call for cost-effective alternatives. Lack of awareness, insufficient resources, and limited availability of accessible course
materials further emphasize the need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts to overcome technological accessibility barriers in higher education for Students with Visual
Disabilities in Bangladesh.

The research paper concludes with a set of comprehensive recommendations aimed at addressing the identified challenges. These recommendations encompass investing in accessible course
materials, implementing training programs for educators and students, establishing university resource centers, decentralizing services, integrating technology assistance, and developing special
sections on university websites for Students with Visual Disabilities. Additionally, the paper advocates for research, innovation hubs, government support, tax breaks, subsidies, and adherence
to accessibility standards to create an inclusive environment and collaboration with technology companies underscores the need for a holistic approach. Emphasizing advocacy, self determination strategies, and ongoing research, these recommendations collectively seek to bridge the digital divide and create a more inclusive educational environment for Students with Visual Disabilities in higher education.

The study provides a thorough exploration of the challenges faced by Students with Visual Disabilities in Bangladesh, offering insights into their unique needs and proposing a set of actionable recommendations to foster inclusivity, awareness, and support in higher education. reveals challenges in accessing higher education in, emphasizing financial constraints, limitations and technological barriers. The recommendations propose a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, promoting inclusivity