From Why to How through ICT for PWD in the Philippines with Sign Language Interpreting

Summary

This video explores the journey of persons with disabilities in the Philippines toward accessing information and communication technologies (ICT). It highlights the challenges faced, such as the lack of awareness and accessibility, and the efforts made to overcome these barriers. Through workshops, collaborations, and key initiatives like the Manila Declaration, ICT accessibility for persons with disabilities has significantly improved, enabling greater independence and inclusion. The video underscores the impact of these changes on individuals, including deaf and blind people, and the broader efforts to engage various sectors in creating accessible digital spaces.

Takeaways

• 😀 ICT has the potential to connect millions of people globally but has traditionally been inaccessible to persons with disabilities.
• 😀 In the Philippines, accessibility challenges persist despite ICT being essential in daily life.
• 😀 Persons with disabilities were previously excluded from ICT opportunities, making it hard for them to access information and participate in digital progress.
• 😀 The Manila Declaration of 2003 was crucial in creating a framework for improving ICT accessibility for persons with disabilities.
• 😀 Collaboration between the government, NGOs, and international bodies like the UN helped improve ICT accessibility in the Philippines.
• 😀 A significant focus of ICT accessibility efforts has been on providing better resources and education for web designers to ensure inclusive web design.
• 😀 Workshops and seminars have been essential in educating web designers about accessible ICT practices, particularly for persons with disabilities.
• 😀 The formation of the Philippine Web Accessibility Group (PIWAG) played a key role in continuing the push for ICT accessibility in the country.
• 😀 As a result of these initiatives, more accessible websites were created, and even government agencies started to recognize and award accessible web designs.
• 😀 Despite progress, full accessibility for all persons with disabilities has not yet been realized, with some barriers still present in the digital world.

Q & A

What is the main challenge faced by persons with disabilities in accessing ICT?

The main challenge faced by persons with disabilities in accessing ICT is the lack of accessibility, which has left them virtually cut off from the benefits of technology and development.

What is the Manila Declaration and how did it impact ICT accessibility for persons with disabilities?

The Manila Declaration, adopted at a United Nations seminar, focused on promoting accessible ICT for persons with disabilities. It opened doors for initiatives that would enable persons with disabilities to engage with ICT, creating programs specifically designed to enhance accessibility.

How did the Philippines address the issue of ICT accessibility for persons with disabilities?

The Philippines addressed this issue by organizing seminars and workshops on accessible ICT, fostering collaboration between government, non-government organizations (NGOs), and the private sector, and promoting awareness of the needs of persons with disabilities.

What was the significance of the training on Daisy and web-based networking in the context of ICT accessibility?

The training on Daisy (Digital Accessible Information System) and web-based networking helped individuals understand how to navigate computers without relying on a mouse, using keyboard shortcuts instead. This was particularly important for visually impaired individuals.

What role did web designers play in improving ICT accessibility in the Philippines?

Web designers played a crucial role by learning about accessibility standards, making changes to their designs, and ensuring their websites were accessible to persons with disabilities, especially those who are visually impaired.

What specific changes did web designers have to make after attending workshops on ICT accessibility?

Web designers learned to stop using elements like Flash animations that were not accessible and began incorporating more accessible features such as alternative text, keyboard navigability, and simplified designs for persons with disabilities.

What was the outcome of the workshop series for web designers in terms of website accessibility?

The workshop series led to the development of a four-point criteria for accessible websites. Websites that met these standards were awarded the 'PWD friendly' award, which recognized their commitment to ICT accessibility.

How did the collaboration between the government and NGOs help promote ICT accessibility in the Philippines?

Collaboration between the government and NGOs led to continuous workshops, public education campaigns, and the creation of platforms for disabled people to voice their needs. This united approach resulted in significant improvements in accessibility in ICT.

What role did the private sector, media, and persons with disabilities themselves play in the ICT accessibility movement in the Philippines?

The private sector, media, and persons with disabilities themselves were key contributors. The involvement of business sectors and media helped raise awareness, while persons with disabilities championed the cause by advocating for their own needs.

How has ICT accessibility improved the lives of persons with disabilities, especially in terms of employment?

ICT accessibility has enabled persons with disabilities to become more independent and employable. For instance, in the Philippines, deaf persons were employed in the Department of Foreign Affairs, demonstrating how ICT skills can improve their work opportunities and social integration.