There is a blind people's organization in Sri Lanka with over 1,500 members. Unfortunately, only a small number of visually impaired individuals are attending university - on average, only 25 to 30 people per year. A few individuals go up to the GCE Advanced Level, while others go up to the GCE Ordinary Level. However, this number is very limited, and most visually impaired individuals are poorly educated.
The government does not offer jobs to individuals with even an O/L or A/L education, so the private sector is the only option. However, some blind individuals do not prefer to work in private companies, as they feel that the salary of LKR. 10,000 to 15,000 is insufficient.
As a result, over 60-70% of the blind population resorts to some form of self-employment, but most of them are not running 'true' self-employment enterprises and instead depend on the sympathy of others. They indirectly plead for money, with some selling lottery tickets, books, or incense sticks in crowded streets, trains, buses, or near temples and churches. Most, if not all, are begging for money from others. Although not counted, many blind individuals go around with a begging bowl.
Image credits - https://rotaractachievers.org/blog/colomboblindwalk/
Testing prototype
Introducing Wevilo, a groundbreaking wearable designed with empathy and innovation for visually impaired lottery sellers in Sri Lanka. This revolutionary product addresses the myriad challenges faced by these individuals on a daily basis, providing a seamless solution to enhance their independence and security. Wevilo boasts transparent pockets strategically placed for lotteries, enabling buyers to easily identify and request their preferred tickets. The genius lies in the intuitive button system on the lottery trays, allowing sellers to effortlessly discern and hand over the desired lottery with confidence. With dedicated pockets for money and a water bottle, Wevilo ensures that the sellers' essentials are organized and secure. The addition of reflective strips on the back not only enhances visibility in the dark but also acts as a safety feature, reducing the risk of accidents. Embracing practicality, the wearable comes equipped with a detachable front part, doubling as a packable jacket for easy transport. Complete with a protective hoodie, Wevilo is not just a product; it's a thoughtful, inclusive solution that empowers visually impaired lottery sellers to navigate their world with newfound confidence and ease.
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