Mr.Abhishek Patil, a final-year student of the six-year Integrated Master of Optometry programme, presented his research titled “Integrating Digital AV-Aids for Inclusive Higher Education Students with Color Vision Deficiency and Low Vision: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Indian Higher Education” at the 46th Low Vision Awarness Programme – a two-day continuing education program conducted by the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation (IVR), L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), Hyderabad.

Abhishek is conducting his research under the supervision of Dr. Shiva Ram Male, Assistant Professor, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad. The study examined awareness and implementation of accessible audiovisual aids in higher education. Although awareness among respondents was high at 82%, only 18% had received formal training, while fewer than 30% reported adequate integration of accessible digital resources. Teaching adjustments were reported by 74% of respondents.

The study recommends:

1 – Screening and counselling students at an early stage while safeguarding their privacy and preventing stigma.
2 – Developing accessible templates for presentations, diagrams, videos and online assessments.
3 – Establishing coordinated disability-support systems involving optometry, vision sciences and assistive-technology services.
4 – Evaluating initiatives through student experience, accessibility compliance and academic participation not awareness alone.

The findings emphasise that accessible audiovisual aids should be embedded in routine teaching, assessment practices and institutional policies. The immediate priority is to translate recognition of visual impairment into consistent, measurable and inclusive practices.

Prof. Ramesh Kumar Mishra , Dean, School of Medical Sciences, appreciated the research initiative and encouraged student to engage with emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and the ongoing technological transformation. He observed that programmes in Optometry and Vision Sciences foster interdisciplinary engagement and add significant value to the academic and research environment of the School. He also extended his best wishes to the students for their future work.