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World Braille Day: Technology and Inclusion under Debate - Join the Braille and Artificial Intelligence Webinar

Updated : 04/01/2026

Image with dark blue background, showing a graphic representation of a brain divided into two halves. The left half consists of interlocking light lines simulating neural connections, while the right half features electronic circuits with a central chip containing the letters 'IA' illuminated. At the bottom, a hand, with four visible fingers, touches the lower two halves of the brain reading Braille dots.

On the day 4 January, we celebrate the World Braille Day, a greater symbol of literacy, autonomy and inclusion for blind and low-sighted people. In an increasingly digital world, Braille remains an essential tool for ensuring access to information, communication and full participation in society.

As Mary Pat Radabaugh said in 1993: “For most people, technology makes things easier; for people with disabilities, technology makes things possible.”

This idea is particularly relevant when we think of the convergence between Braille e Artificial Intelligence (AI). Far from posing a threat, technological innovation can open up new opportunities to strengthen Braille reading and writing by promoting inclusive and accessible solutions.

In order to deepen this reflection, the National Institute for Rehabilitation, I.P. (INR), and Core for Braille and Leit's Complementary Meansura, organise an webinar Dedicated to the topic on the day 15 January 2026.

This event will:

  • ExploreHow AI Can Power Braille, automating processes and facilitating the production of accessible materials;

  • Submitacademic, pedagogical and user perspectives;

  • Discuss Future scenarios for a more inclusive society.

Panel of Experts:

  • Moderator: Rui Batista (Núcleo Braille)

Speakers: Ângelo Abrantes – Retired lecturer and proficient Braille user; Isabel Anacleto - Professor of Special Education in the Field of Vision; Rafael Martins – Dorina Nowill Foundation for the Blind (Brazil) and Tiago Guerreiro – Associate Professor in the Department of Informatics of the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon

Webinar: Braille and Artificial Intelligence – Opportunities and Challenges

  • Date: 15 January 2026 (Thursday)

  • Time: 17h00 – 18h30 (Continental Portugal) | 14h00 – 15h30 (Brasília – Brazil)

  • Format: Online, via Zoom Webinar

  • Duration: 1.30 a.m.

  • Link to registration: https://tinyurl.com/yuv36udd

Sign up and join us in this reflection on technology, accessibility and inclusion!