Total Access Communication (DTAC) has launched three initiatives to empower persons with disabilities to take advantage of the digital world.
The initiatives involve data packages, training, and support services to help persons with disabilities have equal access to digital connectivity through collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) and the National Association of the Deaf in Thailand (NADT), reports Bangkok Post.
According to the UN report “Leveraging Digital Technologies for Social Inclusion” from last year, one in five people worldwide has a disability. In Thailand, there are 2.1 million people with disabilities, or 3.18% of their population, half of them over age 60. Some 81.5% of people with disabilities in the country only have primary education.
Sharad Mehrotra, chief executive of DTAC, said the company can play a role in providing digital access to those living with disabilities to improve their livelihood and promote freedom of expression.
The first initiative involves designing mobile packages for people with disabilities and their caregivers, offering affordable prices. Users with hearing disabilities rely heavily on the internet and data plans to connect with others through video calls, messaging apps, or social media platforms.
As part of the initiative, customers who purchase a 99-baht package can receive 4 gigabytes of data, while a 249-baht package provides unlimited data at a speed of 4 megabits per second.
DTAC also extends a 15% discount for its “dSurance” insurance service feature through its mobile app.
For the second measure, DTAC’s “Net-for-living” digital skill development programme has partnered with the DEP to conduct digital upskilling training for 21 occupational groups and some vocational rehabilitation centres for people with disabilities. With digital upskilling, participants are projected to earn 15% more income and enhance their opportunities and quality of life, DTAC indicated.
The third initiative involves launching a sign-language video call centre where customers can make Line video calls to the firm’s agents who can fluently use sign language to address their queries and provide assistance. Subscribers from other mobile operators can also use this service, which runs from 9 am to 5 pm every day.
