Braille to Bytes: Technology and Disability | Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar | TEDxSt Pauls College

A TEDx talk by Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, founder and managing trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, traces three decades of technological progress in supporting persons with disabilities. The talk looks at how assistive technology can widen access, independence and equal opportunity. It also argues that digital tools must be built to be inclusive so they can reduce barriers in education, employment and daily life. The speaker is a person with visual impairment himself. This talk was given at an independently organised TEDx event.

• Three decades of assistive technology for persons with disabilities
• How digital tools can improve accessibility, independence and inclusion
• Removing barriers in education, employment and everyday life
• Speaker: Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Samarthanam Trust

From Braille to Bytes,” explores three decades of technological advancements in empowering persons with disabilities. He highlights how assistive technology promotes accessibility, independence, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all. He also emphasises the importance of making technology inclusive and accessible, demonstrating how digital innovations can break barriers in education, employment, and everyday life. His talk inspires audiences to recognise the potential of technology in building a more equitable and inclusive society. Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar is the Founder and Managing Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled and a globally recognized advocate for disability inclusion. A person with visual impairment himself, he has dedicated nearly three decades to empowering persons with disabilities through education, technology, employment, sports, and inclusive development. His pioneering work has transformed countless lives by championing innovation that makes society more accessible and equitable. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx