Digital textbooks transform learning for visually impaired students in Vietnam

A digital textbook programme for visually impaired students is making a difference at Nguyễn Đình Chiểu School. The initiative, which began as a small pilot, now supports dozens of pupils with accessible e-books. One of them, 10th grader Lê Đức Minh, has seen his grades improve after switching from Braille to online learning tools. The accessible e-book project first launched in the 2024-25 academic year. It started with 30 visually impaired students in grades 7 and 9. By the following year, the programme had doubled in size, reaching 64 pupils from grades 6 to 9.

Lê Đức Minh was among the first at the school to use the digital library. Instead of relying on traditional Braille books, he now accesses textbooks through sachtiepcan.vn and assistive apps. The e-books include synchronised text and audio, letting him study independently and prepare lessons ahead of time.

The school provides accessible textbooks in five key subjects: Maths, Literature, English, Natural Sciences, and History-Geography. Former student Nguyễn Thị Diệu Linh praised the detailed image descriptions in geography books, calling them accurate and helpful. To help students adapt, the school also focuses on IT training, teaching them to use computers and mobile devices for learning.

Minh's academic performance has improved since using the digital materials. He now ranks among the top five in his class and holds good student status. The programme has expanded from 30 to 64 students in just one year. With accessible e-books and IT support, visually impaired pupils like Minh can now study more effectively. The school continues to develop the project, aiming to include more subjects and students in the future.