Joint Press Release

Launch of Assistive Technology Library @ Temasek Polytechnic

TP is the 1st institution to house such a facility in its main library 

Tuesday, 13 Nov 2018, 2pm, Level 2, TP Library

Singapore, 10 November 2018 – Temasek Polytechnic students with special educational needs (SEN) will soon be able to test and try out various Assistive Technology (AT) devices onsite. They will also be able to loan them out on a short-term basis before purchasing them, or when their own devices require maintenance. 

This is the result of the setting up of an Assistive Technology Library @ TP – a collaboration between Temasek Polytechnic (TP) and SPD, with support from Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA).

Students requiring such AT devices can tap on MOE’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) Fund, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, based on the type of disability. 

The launch of the Assistive Technology (AT) Library @ TP will also help TP staff and students better understand how the features of these AT devices can help individuals with special needs lead a more empowered life.  The AT Library would include devices for assistive listening, augmentative communication, as well as alternative instruction and visual aids, just to name a few. 

TP is the only institution to house the AT devices within its main library at a very visible and accessible venue to the TP community. The core objective for this is to arouse curiosity and promote awareness of the AT devices in both the school and work environments. 

Commenting on the launch, TP’s Director, Student Support & Career Services, Mr Samuel Wee said: “At TP, we want to encourage our students with special educational needs to adopt assistive devices so as to be independent learners and work-ready. We are confident that the AT Library @ TP will show them the potential of assistive technology and be the impetus for their eventual adoption of these devices.” 

The facility would also serve as a training resource area for TP staff and students. Lecturers from the poly’s School of Humanities & Social Sciences will conduct classes to introduce students to various assistive technology devices through hands-on training. 

SPD’s Executive Director, Mr Abhimanyau Pal, said: “Assistive technology is an important leveller for persons with disabilities as it helps individuals overcome limitations resulting from their disabilities so that they can fulfil their potential. As a strong AT advocate, we are happy to partner TP and IMDA in making AT easily accessible to TP students and thereby empowering them in their learning.”

The Assistive Technology Library @ TP will be launched with the signing of an MOU by TP’s Principal & CEO, Mr Peter Lam and Mr Abhimanyau Pal, Executive Director, SPD.