UKZN Becomes First SA University to Empower Visually Impaired Students with Smart AI Glasses

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The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is the first university in South Africa to provide Envision Smart AI Glasses to five visually-impaired students.

The initiative was made possible through the efforts of the UKZN Foundation, which approached assistive technology provider Sensory Solutions (Pty) Ltd to supply the devices to the University’s Disability Support Unit (DSU).

The students are Mr Bright Sello, Ms Thandeka Ngcobo, Ms Londiwe Ndaba, Mr Siboniso Mabuza and Ms Thembisa Xolo.

The Envision Glasses use artificial intelligence (AI) to assist blind and visually-impaired users with the ability to read printed and digital text, recognise faces, navigate environments and access real-time descriptions of their surroundings - all through discreet audio feedback.

Each pair of glasses costs about R75 000 and comes with lifetime software updates and technical support.

“UKZN is proud to lead the way in implementing advanced assistive technology that speaks to the needs of our diverse student body,” said Mr Amith Ramballie, Head of the University’s Disability Support Unit.

“These glasses not only reflect our commitment to accessibility but also our belief in every student’s right to learn, grow and succeed independently.”

He continued: “This milestone is particularly significant because no other university in South Africa currently offers students access to this device. While wearable assistive technology has existed for years, previous models were often more expensive or lacked functionality and reliability.”

At the core of the Envision Glasses is a high-definition camera embedded in lightweight frames built on the Google Glass platform. The camera captures visual data - be it a printed page, a street sign or a face - and AI algorithms process the information instantly. The glasses provide real-time audio feedback through speakers near the ear, enabling users to read printed and digital text, recognise faces, navigate spaces and locate objects or people.

Support for over 60 languages and seamless smartphone connectivity make the device versatile and globally adaptable.

“UKZN is the ideal launch partner for this technology in South Africa,” said Mr Mukhtar Khan of Sensory Solutions, the exclusive distributor of Envision Glasses in the country. “We’ve seen a genuine commitment to inclusion from the University and a thoughtful, student-first approach that aligns perfectly with what this technology aims to achieve.”

UKZN implemented a comprehensive selection process to ensure that the glasses were awarded to students who would benefit most. A panel of Disability Support Unit independence trainers, disability co-ordinators and the information access officer evaluated candidates based on several criteria: severity of visual impairment, academic need, course requirements, level of independence, technological literacy, willingness to engage, long-term benefit and financial circumstances.

The aim was not only to enhance educational outcomes but also to support broader personal growth and independence in university life.

“The impact of the glasses extends far beyond the classroom,” said Ramballie. “Imagine being able to read a timetable independently, confidently find your lecture venue or recognise your lecturer in a crowd. These simple yet powerful moments are now possible.

“The glasses also enable students to participate more actively in group projects and seminars. With tools like Ally, they can assist with real-time interpretation and engagement during fast-paced discussions.”

Fourth-year Bachelor of Science student Mr Bright Sello was overcome with emotion upon learning he would receive a pair of Smart AI Glasses. “For the first time, I feel like I won’t be left behind. I can do things on my own - read my notes, follow slides in lectures and recognise my friends. I finally have control,” he said.

Sello, who is partially sighted, said lectures were particularly daunting. “I often sat in class unable to follow because I couldn’t read the screen or see what the lecturer was pointing to,” he said. “I relied heavily on classmates or tutors after hours, which made me feel like I was always behind.”

The introduction of the glasses marks a turning point in his academic journey. “Now I won’t have to depend on others all the time,” said Sello. “It’s not just about seeing the material - it’s about regaining my independence, dignity and confidence to fully participate in my education.”

Speaking to the students, Khan said: “It is now up to you to use this remarkable technology to reach your goals - whether academic, personal or professional. We hope these glasses bring you greater ease, freedom and joy in your studies. We look forward to seeing all that you will achieve.”

For more information about supporting accessibility initiatives at UKZN, or to contribute to future assistive technology projects, contact the UKZN Foundation at: foundation@ukzn.ac.za.

Words: Melissa Mungroo

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini