CODISA, Google Train Visually Impaired Students in UNILAG

By Faidat Azeez, Adenekan Oluwaseun

The Christ’s Outreach on Disabilities (CODISA) Foundation, in partnership with Google, has trained over 30 visually-impaired students at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mobile accessibility tools. 

The session introduced participants to Android features such as Voice Access, Reading Mode, and TalkBack, which allow users to navigate their phones by voice commands instead of touch.

Speaking on the training activities, Google’s Search Partnerships Lead for Sub-Saharan Africa, Ugochi Agoreyo, said the students were introduced to Gemini, Google’s AI model, which can read text aloud, scan rooms, describe surroundings, and provide instant information through voice interactions. “These tools can significantly enhance safety, learning, and independence,” she added.

CODISA Foundation Leader, Prince Olaoluwa Awojoodu, also highlighted the importance of the event, stating that it was born out of the need to equip visually-impaired students with tools that foster independence and accessibility.

The Director of Google West Africa, Olumide Balogun, described the collaboration as a natural step in using technology to make a difference in people’s lives. “We’re delighted to be here, sharing this experience with our brothers and sisters. It’s about bringing the power of technology to them in a way that enriches their lives and their purpose,” he said.

The training left a strong impression on the students. Olumide Oladimeji, a 300-level Political Science student, described it as a dream come true. “It’s a wonderful one. The thought of Google being here has been one of my lifelong dreams. This training has opened my eyes to new possibilities, and I hope to one day become an accessibility consultant with Google, creating more inclusive solutions,” he said.