November 9th marks World Usability Day, a global event focused on promoting accessibility and user experience for all. On this occasion, we’re inspired by the journey of Nehemiah Kirui, a young man with low vision who is making a substantial impact, highlighting the transformative power of usability and assistive technology. 

Nehemiah, a computer instructor intern at inABLE based at Thika School for the Blind, is a living testament to the possibilities created by assistive technology. Nehemiah’s story began when he graduated from Thika High School for the Blind in 2018.  

“Due to lack of school fees, I was unable to proceed with tertiary education and I thus stayed at home,” Nehemiah confides, adding that he is a beneficiary of the computer-labs-for-the-blind program and most of the computer skills he possesses now stem from the program. In July 2021, he embarked on a new journey as an intern in inABLE’s assistive technology computer lab, a program designed to empower learners with visual impairments through technology.

 
 
“Usability and assistive technology have been instrumental in my journey, enabling me to pass on computer skills and encouraging my students to embrace digital independence. I can now confidently and independently use a computer for various operations, such as sending and receiving emails, engaging in social media, and even coding using HTML and CSS,” he shares. 

Alongside fellow interns, he creates simple websites and applications, showcasing the incredible potential of individuals with visual impairments. The significance of usability becomes evident when considering the challenges visually impaired individuals face while interacting with technology. Many products, often designed without accessibility in mind, pose significant usability barriers for them. “Designers, manufacturers, and developers need to consider the diverse needs of users with disabilities, making World Usability Day more relevant than ever,” he emphasizes. 

In response to these challenges, inABLE has prioritized accessibility in our assistive technology computer labs. By equipping computers with screen readers, we enable visually impaired individuals to access information and technology independently. Browsing, note-taking, email communication, and online entertainment are now within reach for those with visual impairments, reflecting the theme of World Usability Day – “Designing for the Future We Want.” 

Over the past decade, inABLE has continually enhanced its programs, positively impacting learners across various schools for the blind. The introduction of Chromebooks to students has further emphasized the role of technology in providing a more inclusive and accessible education. 
 
Nehemiah’s personal journey is a testament to the significance of usability and assistive technology. Mobile money transfers and other daily activities have become more accessible, thanks to magnification lenses and large print. inABLE has not only empowered him but also offered employment opportunities, a journey that began with his experience at the assistive technology computer lab in high school. 

Now, as an assistive technology computer instructor, Nehemiah champions the importance of usability and accessibility. He ensures that totally blind and low vision learners can participate fully in computer classes, highlighting the role of assistive technology. His students use screen readers and magnification tools to access educational content, reflecting the principles of usability championed by World Usability Day. 
 
As we commemorate this day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the transformative power of usability, and the work that remains to be done in creating a world that is truly accessible to all. As Nehemiah aptly puts it, “Usability is not just a concept; it’s a gateway to a more inclusive world.” 

By Lily Ronoh-Waweru (Multimedia Storyteller) and Valary Olesia (Computer Instructor)