Eyeway Conversations with O Aishwarya

12/05/2025 24 min

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Eyeway Conversations, George Abraham speaks with O. Aishwarya, a PhD scholar at IIIT Bangalore, working at the intersection of assistive technology, social sciences, and inclusive education.Aishwarya’s research focuses on developing tactile art opportunities for children who are blind, with a goal to establish an independent grammar of tactile expression—distinct from visual interpretations. Through her work, she questions visual-centric notions of art and explores how texture, space, and sequencing redefine creative engagement for blind learners.She also opens up about:Studying in mainstream schools in Kerala and Karnataka, and the gaps in inclusive practicesHer experience of being denied access to swimming pools in Bangalore, despite being a trained swimmerMissing out on geometry, lab work, and life skills due to a lack of accessible pedagogyLearning braille, computer skills, and mobility much later, led entirely by family effort and timingThe shift she experienced when Azim Premji University proactively asked her about accommodations—an empowering first step.This is a compelling conversation that challenges conventional ideas of access, participation, and the role of institutions in enabling inclusion.For information or support, contact the Eyeway Helpdesk: 8800 00 4334Listen to the full episode now.