AI is becoming a lifeline for young learners with disabilities, as PLDT and Smart launch a new training program that teaches special needs education (SNED) students to use accessible Android tools for school and daily tasks. The goal is simple: turn the devices they already hold into learning companions they can rely on.

The Android Accessibility Training tailored for students with disabilities was developed with ATRIEV (Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired), a nonprofit organization that provides ICT-based training and services to persons with disabilities, and NORFIL Foundation. The pilot run was held at Padre Gomez Elementary School in Manila, where 19 students took part in the five-day training.

“Technology can be a great equalizer,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “With the help of mobile applications, our SNED teachers can customize their teaching strategies to better address the learning needs of students with disabilities.”

Supported by the Department of Education’s Schools Division Office of Manila, the sessions introduced students to interactive reading apps, gamified math tools, and communication features designed for users with sensory or learning disabilities. Teachers said many students responded well to real-time feedback and visual cues built into the apps.

“The workshop is aligned with the DepEd’s commitment to strengthening inclusive and quality education for all learners through the implementation and full operation of the existing Inclusive Learning Resource Centers and the establishment of new ILRCs all over the country,” said Amcy M. Esteban, Education Program Supervisor – Kindergarten and Special Education, DepEd Schools Division Office of Manila. “Let us not focus on the disability, but on the ability. With the help of technology, our SNED students can access wider opportunities in the future.”

The training was held as part of Manila’s 69th Special Needs Education Week and was led by trainers from ATRIEV, many of whom have disabilities themselves. Their experience, ATRIEV said, helps ensure the tools are introduced in ways that feel intuitive to young learners.

“As someone with visual impairment, I am familiar with the challenges experienced by our students with disabilities,” said Nerikka Escario, Master Trainer 2, ATRIEV. “I can walk in their shoes and test how accessible the application is.”

The Android Accessibility Training is part of PLDT and Smart’s IDEATe (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology) program that uses technology to equip marginalized individuals with the necessary digital skills so they can access learning and livelihood opportunities. These efforts also underscore the PLDT Group’s commitment to helping the country achieve UNSDG 4 on Quality Education, UNSDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, and UNSDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities.