Blind Bahraini students obtain laptops and Hal screen reader software

Each of the 17 students obtained a laptop equipped with a package of Hal screen reader. Hal reads the computer's display using a high quality synthetic speech. With Hal, blind students can access standard computer systems.

Blind students in Bahrain obtained the required computer training in the Saudi Bahraini Institute which utilizes Hal screen readers in its computer labs. Once graduated from the Institute, students get integrated in regular mainstream schools. With Hal and a laptop integration of blind students in mainstream schools proved to be very successful.

"We are seeing an increased awareness in Bahrain on the role of technology in integrating blind students in mainstream schools. Private and public organizations are coming together to facilitate such integration. Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co. (GPIC) is practicing good corporate citizenship", said Auda Hazeem, Nattiq Technologies CEO, "with their philanthropy more blind students in Bahrain are getting smoother integration in their favorite schools", he added.

Hundreds of blind Bahrainis use Hal screen readers as well as other products from Nattiq to gain more privacy and independence in accessing standard information and communication technologies.