Viva and “Source” announce a new phase of cooperation

After eight years of continued success with the “Personal Assistant” program, Viva and “Source” have announced a new phase of their partnership. The focus is once again on children with moderate and severe disabilities, but now the goal of the support is different: to make the impossible possible for children with speech and written communication limitations through alternative augmentative communication tools (AAC). 

With the support of Viva, students at the “Source Tnak” center will begin to communicate independently: express thoughts, feelings, and answer questions by controlling the computer with their eyes. The latest technology from alternative augmentative communication tools is already at the center. Specialists have begun to use the new tool. Instead of hands, the child focuses his gaze, selecting words, sentences, or images on the screen, and instead of clicking the mouse, he blinks his eyes. New technologies will allow children to overcome limitations in speech and written communication, communicate with family, peers, and professionals, and become more actively involved in everyday life.

“When new technologies offer smart solutions to overcome complex challenges, it's important to seize this opportunity, especially when it comes to children. Effective program implementation requires the right combination of technological tools and the professional work of specialists. In this new phase of our collaboration, we once again need to act consistently and in a coordinated manner to achieve the desired results. I am convinced that where there is responsibility, love, and dedication, the impossible becomes possible, especially for children who face difficulties in oral and written communication,” said Viva’s General Director Armen Avetisian.

Camille Matta, an assistive technology professional, who arrived in Armenia, states based on international experience, that there are hundreds of students who have used these technologies to continue their education and even author books. In this regard, he highly appreciates Viva’s support.

“We create communication from scratch. In countries like Armenia, we rely on organizations that recognize the value of corporate social responsibility and its social impact. We work here thanks to the investment of a large telecommunications operator, Viva. Eye tracking devices are very important for people who cannot speak, use computers or have access to technology, are self-secluded from birth or due to acquired problems due to illness,” said Assistive Technology Professional, Founder and Managing Director of Consort World Camille Matta.

The set of alternative communication devices was developed by specialists: therapists, special educators and speech therapists. The innovative solution is especially important for children with cerebral palsy, Rett syndrome and neurological conditions, who are unable to use traditional means of communication.

“We have had years of cooperation with Viva and have implemented many successful programs. The new program, thanks to alternative communication, will provide an opportunity to change the quality of life of more than 50 children. It will also have a serious impact on the training of specialists and the involvement of parents in this work,” said Director of the “Source” Foundation Marina Parazyan.

In total, the program will allow 150 children to be helped through medium and high-tech alternative communication.

The use of new technologies will reduce children’s frustration and isolation, help overcome barriers to inclusion, enabling them to fully participate in everyday life and educational environments, and promote cognitive development and independence, easing the burden on parents and caregivers.