Dhaka:A training program titled "Innovation and Inclusion" was held at Jahangirnagar University to equip teachers, students, researchers, and young innovators with knowledge on incorporating the needs of all citizens, including persons with disabilities, into technological innovation and digital service design.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the program was jointly organized by Jahangirnagar University and Aspire to Innovate (a2i) at the university's Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Nearly 200 participants attended the event.
Mohammad Anwar Uddin, the project director (Additional Secretary) of a2i, shared expert insights during the program. The event was also attended by CSE Department Chairman Dr. Md Abul Kalam Azad, Dr. Mohammad Zahidur Rahman, and Md Nahid Alam, head of Innovation at a2i.
The training sessions, conducted by a2i Accessibility Consultant Vashkar Bhattacharjee and Innovation Consultant Taufiqur Rahman, covered topics such as digital accessibility, human-centred and universal design, assistive technologies, and international accessibility standards. Participants learned methods for assessing website, mobile application, and digital content accessibility in line with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Section 508 accessibility requirements.
The sessions also emphasized innovation-driven research at universities, contributing to the national economy through innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and advancing the principle of "innovation for solving problems and innovation for all." The organizers highlighted the importance of nurturing inclusive thinking among young engineers and innovators at the university level to ensure future digital products and services are accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities.
They added that this initiative would help expand opportunities for research and innovation in inclusive technology.