Odisha Government’s scheme to provide free laptops to visually impaired students pursuing higher education, this scheme is run by the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department. Students are getting this scheme. In this, the department is providing laptop distribution to visually impaired students pursuing higher education. It equips students with the necessary equipment for academic success in professional courses after class 12, undergraduate and postgraduate courses. This scheme falls under the broader “Special Equipment” scheme which provides assistive devices to students with disabilities.
Benefits
- Laptop Distribution: Laptops are distributed to visually impaired students in camps organized across different regions of the state, in the presence of public representatives and government officers.
- JAWS Software: The laptops come with JAWS (Job Access With Speech) software installed, specifically designed to facilitate learning and computer usage for visually impaired students.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Supply Free Laptops to Visually Impaired Students Pursuing Higher Education scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of Odisha.
- Disability: The applicant must have a disability of 40% or more.
- Course Enrollment: The applicant must be pursuing at least the 1st year of a professional course after Class 12, or an undergraduate or postgraduate course (including M.Phil, Ph.D., Law, Management, Medicine, and other technical courses).
- Previous Laptop: The applicant must not have received a free laptop under any previous schemes.
Exclusions
- Students who have already received a free laptop under any previous schemes are not eligible.
Application Process
Online Process:
- Visit the official SSEPD Department website to apply for the scheme.
- Click on “New Application” and then click “Proceed”.
- Fill in all required details in the online application form, including the Disability Certificate.
- Check the “Undertaking” box and submit the details. After submission, take a printout of the application for reference.
Offline Process:
- Visit the official website to download the offline application form.
- Complete the form with necessary details and submit it through the respective channels.
Documents Required
- Disability Certificate (certifying 40% disability or more)
- Aadhaar Card (Scan Copy)
- Passport-size Photo (Scan Copy)
- Recommendation Certificate (issued by the Principal or Head of the Institution where the student is enrolled)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are students with vision impairments from other states admitted into this Odisha program?
No, only residents of Odisha qualify for this program. - Does a visually impaired student need to apply through their institution or may they apply directly?
Students can apply directly through the online platform, although a recommendation document from their university is necessary. - Are there any particular laptop models or brands available?
Laptops will be outfitted with JAWS software, but no specific brands or models are specified. - Are students able to select the laptop’s specifications?
The laptop’s specifications are predetermined to meet the needs of visually impaired students. - Are there any resources available for laptop upkeep and repair?
Maintenance or repair support isn’t specifically indicated; students may need to check with the department for further information. - What occurs if a student misplaces or has their laptop stolen?
The student should notify the authorities if the laptop is stolen or misplaced. The scheme lacks explicit replacement policies. - After finishing education, are there any requirements to return the laptop?
There are no return policies for laptops after studies are completed, though this isn’t explicitly stated in the plan. - Is this program accessible to distance learning students who are visually impaired?
No, only students enrolled in conventional educational institutions are eligible. - Is using a laptop subject to any restrictions?
The laptop should not be misused; it is intended for educational purposes. - Is it possible to give extra software or accessories to a student who is blind or visually impaired?
Extra software or accessories might be offered in response to particular requirements, though not specifically included in the plan. - Is it possible for a student with vision impairments to give their complimentary laptop to another individual?
No, the recipient student must utilize the laptop; it cannot be transferred. - What is the duration of the application process?
Students should apply ahead of time and monitor the official portal for updates, as processing times may vary.