Boltay Huroof hosted the Accessibility Beyond Barriers Conference 2026 at the JS Auditorium, IBA City Campus, Karachi, on October 22, bringing together educators, public officials, young participants and community members to discuss inclusive education and access to information for people who are blind or visually impaired.
The conference highlighted the challenges faced by learners with visual impairments, particularly the limited availability of Braille textbooks and accessible learning materials. Participants discussed how educational institutions, government bodies and technology providers can work together to improve accessibility and support independent learning.
Braille App and Book Launched to Improve Accessibility
A key highlight of the conference was the launch of Boltay Huroof’s Braille application and a book designed to improve access to written content for people with visual impairments.
The application supports the conversion of Urdu and English text into Braille, using digital technology to make written information more accessible to users.
The launch marked a milestone in efforts to develop inclusive learning resources and address barriers that limit access to educational materials.
Boltay Huroof Highlights Eight Years of Innovation
Speaking at the event, S H Umar, CEO of Boltay Huroof, reflected on the organisation’s research and development journey and called for sustained government support to advance inclusive innovation.
“Eight years ago, the idea of a book readable by both sighted and blind readers simultaneously seemed impossible to many. Today, Alhamdulillah, after 8 years of relentless research, development, and teamwork, we have achieved it. This is just the beginning — with sustained government support, we can accelerate inclusive innovation and ensure no one is left behind, especially Persons with Disabilities,” he said.
His remarks emphasised the role of continued research, collaboration and institutional support in expanding access to information for persons with disabilities.
Conference Focuses on Inclusive Education
The programme featured opening remarks, a video introducing Boltay Huroof’s work and an activity involving blind children, highlighting the importance of participation and equal opportunities for young people with disabilities.
A panel discussion examined barriers to inclusive education and explored practical approaches to making learning environments more accessible.
Discussions also underscored the importance of ensuring that learners with visual impairments can access educational resources and participate more independently in learning activities.
Representatives from Banking and Development Organisations Attend
The conference was attended by Lubna Farooq Malik, CEO of the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF); Hirra Qaiser, CSR Head at the National Bank of Pakistan; Asif Abrar, UNICEF Education Specialist; and Dr Luay Shabaneh, UNFPA Representative.
The participation of representatives from banking, education and development organisations brought together stakeholders with an interest in accessibility and inclusive development.
The event concluded with closing remarks and the distribution of books and certificates, marking the conclusion of a programme centred on accessible education, assistive technology and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.