3 Days Index Braille Training First Time in Nepal.

Progress Report on the 3-Days Index Braille Repair Training

From February 15th to 17th, 2025, the Nepal Association for the Welfare of the Blind (NAWB) organized a three-day Index Braille repair training at its premises. The training was attended by five participants and led by Anna Lau, the Managing Director of Index Braille Technology Sys (M) SDN BHD, which provides sales, service, and support for Index Braille embossers. Anna Lau, an experienced international trainer in repairing Index Braille devices, has a strong background in the field and has conducted similar training programs globally. This was the first time this kind of training was conducted in Nepal, which made it a significant event for both the participants and the organization.
The training was fully supported by Index Braille Technology Sys (M) SDN BHD, which also provided the necessary resources. The participants of the training included Rashila Bajracharya, a Senior Braillist and Computer Operator, Prabin Maharjan and Shree Krishna Thapa Magar, both Computer Operators at NAWB, Arbin Kumar Yadav, a Computer Teacher at the Laboratory Sec School in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, and Bhupal Khawas, a Resource Teacher at Purwanchal Gyanchakshu School in Dharan, Sunsari. These participants were selected for their experience and involvement in Braille literacy and education, making them ideal candidates for the training.
Throughout the three days, the training was engaging and well-received. The participants showed great interest and enthusiasm in learning the methods for diagnosing and repairing damaged Index Braille embossers. The main focus was on the problem-solving techniques necessary for identifying issues with the machines, followed by discussions on how to repair these problems effectively. During the training, participants worked directly on malfunctioning Index Braillers brought from various schools and from NAWB. They diagnosed the issues and prioritized repairs, successfully restoring all the damaged machines by the end of the program.
In the closing session of the training, Anna Lau expressed her gratitude to the NAWB for the opportunity to conduct the training and emphasized the importance of continuing to collaborate for the expansion of Braille technology in Nepal. She also pledged to remain in contact for future projects and to provide ongoing support in the development of the Index Braille area.
Mr. Pawan Ghimire, the General Secretary of NAWB, delivered a heartfelt speech during the closing ceremony. He thanked Anna Lau for conducting such a valuable and impactful training. He also highlighted NAWB’s historical background, its mission, and the various activities the organization has been involved in. Mr. Ghimire mentioned that NAWB aims to build strong relationships with partners in the field of education for the blind and visually impaired. NAWB currently supports around 80 inclusive schools across Nepal, serving approximately 15,200 blind and visually impaired students. Over 30 of these schools use Index Braille devices, and this training has equipped the participants with the skills to provide better maintenance and repair services for these devices.
The training was a step forward in enhancing the availability and repair of Braille technology in Nepal, benefiting schools and individuals who rely on these machines. NAWB is committed to ensuring that these devices remain in good working condition so that blind and visually impaired students can continue to receive quality education. The program concluded with a strong message of ongoing cooperation and mutual support for the growth and development of the Braille community in Nepal.
The entire event was organized and overseen by Mr. Ratna Kaji Dangol, Program Officer at NAWB, who ensured that everything ran smoothly and that the participants gained valuable skills during the training.