Tech innovator, Hanu donates Artificial Intelligence-powered glasses to the hearing impaired

Nigerian-born tech innovator, Hanu Fejiro Agbodjie has donated Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered smart glasses to hearing-impaired Nigerians, as part of efforts at expanding access to opportunities and social inclusion for persons living with disabilities.

Penpushing reports that the early beneficiaries which include Joylyn Oge Jacobson, a video production assistant based in Lagos; and Sodiq Olopade, a student of Bayero University, Kano received the innovative hearing aids in company of their relatives in Lagos.

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) smart glasses with a 270-degree speech recognition range, are designed to capture spoken conversations and ambient sounds happening around the user, transcribing them in real time into readable text that are displayed on the lenses, without requiring sign language interpreters or lip-reading.

Penpushing further reports that the innovative glasses come in an ergonomic lightweight design that makes them comfortable for all-day use, while operating via Bluetooth connectivity and a mobile application that allows for user customisation and software updates.

The innovator speaking on the initiative, explained that the project was in a move that underscores his commitment to deploying technology for good adding that the gesture goes beyond giving out glasses, but more about advancing what technology is expected to do.

“Today represents what’s possible when technology meets purpose. We are entering a world of accelerated growth with AI and I believe there has never been a better time than today, to build a world where disability is no longer a permanent sentence; a future where limitations are not defined by the body or circumstances you are born with, but by how bold we are in building solutions with today’s technology’, he stated

“I believe technology should give people a second chance at living freely, and fully. I believe technology can restore dignity, independence, and access to possibilities. Today, that future starts with Joylyn and Sodiq’, Agbodjie added

Penpushing also reports that the donor revealed that the donation is aimed at improving the quality of life for the beneficiaries and reaffirmed his intention to continue investing in tech-driven innovations and deploying such for good.

The tech innovator stressed that innovation must be measured by impact on relationships, employability, and overall social inclusion, not just in terms of money, mobile applications, and social media.

Penpushing reports for Joylyn, who works behind the scenes in the creative industry as a video production assistant and content creator, everyday conversations have often been exhausting and isolating.

“I miss out on instructions, jokes, and even simple interactions at work because I can’t always hear clearly. And it’s been truly difficult, especially with my clients and in relationships. But with these glasses, I can actually see conversations happening around me. This changes how I work, how I relate with people, and how confident I feel. I’m so happy”, she said.

Penpushing further reports that Sodiq, who is pursuing his studies at Bayero University, described the device as life-changing, pointing out that as a student, not hearing clearly affects lecture and other relevance

“As a student, not hearing clearly affects lectures, group discussions, and friendships. These glasses make me feel included again. I can follow conversations without embarrassment r dependence on others. It’s going to help very much. It will make communication much better”, he said.

Penpushing reports that family members of the recipients equally expressed relief and optimism, noting the emotional toll hearing impairment often takes.

“We have watched Joylyn struggle silently for years, withdrawing more inward and away from socializing. This is more than a device; it is freedom and confidence returning to her life”, Christiana, Joylyn’s cousin said.

Penpushing also reports that Dr. James Nnowaluem, who coordinated the outreach exercise described the smart glasses as a breakthrough in assistive technology, pointing out that hearing loss is not just a medical condition, but affects mental health among others.

“Hearing loss is not just a medical condition; it affects mental health, productivity, and social belonging. This devise will bridge the communication gap in real time and significantly improve quality of life”, he noted.

Penpushing reports that, an E.N.T. specialist, Dr. Johnson Ukeje in his remarks said Artificial Intelligence (AI) glasses complement traditional hearing solutions

“Not everyone benefits fully from hearing aids, this real-time transcription technology offers a reliable path to inclusion for the hearing impaired in our environments”, he said.

Penpushing further reports that a Clinical Audiologist, K.D. Ibitoye, on his part expressed his belief that many people with profound hearing loss will benefit greatly from the innovation.

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