UKZN introduces Envision Smart AI Glasses for visually impaired students
Bright Sello, a fourth-year BSc student wearing the Smart AI Glasses
Image: Sethu Dlamini / UKZN
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has become the first university in South Africa to provide Envision Smart AI Glasses to five visually impaired students.
The Envision Glasses use artificial intelligence (AI) to empower 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.
This initiative was made possible mainly through the efforts of the UKZN Foundation who approached assistive technology provider Sensory Solutions (Pty) Ltd to donate these glasses to the University’s Disability Support Unit (DSU). Each pair of glasses costs about R75 000 and comes with lifetime software updates and technical support.
Dr Roshanthi Subrayen, Siyabonga Shabane, Thandeka Ngcobo, Londiwe Ndaba, Siboniso Mabuza, Bright Sello and Phiwayinkosi Mungwe. Seated in the front row from left are Derrick Munyai, Mukhtar Khan, Amith Ramballie
Image: Sethu Dlamini / UKZN
The recipients of the eyewear were Bright Sello, Thandeka Ngcobo, Londiwe Ndaba, Siboniso Mabuza and Thembisa Xolo.
Upon learning that he would be receiving a pair of Smart AI Glasses, Sello, fourth-year Bachelor of Science student was overcome with emotion, “For the first time, I feel like I won’t be left behind. I can do things on my own, read my notes and slides in the lecture hall and recognise my friends. I finally have control,” he said.
Sello, who is partially sighted, struggled to navigate the academic environment. Lectures were particularly daunting for him. “I often sat in class unable to follow along because I couldn’t read what was on the screen or see what the lecturer was pointing to,” he said. “I had to rely heavily on classmates or tutors after hours to help me catch up, which made me feel like I was always lagging behind.”
The introduction of the glasses marks a transformative shift in his academic journey. “Now, I won’t have to depend on others all the time,” said Sello. “It’s not just about being able to see the material – it’s about regaining my independence, dignity and the confidence to fully participate in my own education.”
Amith Ramballie, Head of the University’s Disability Support Unit said UKZN was proud to lead the way in implementing advanced assistive technology that speaks to the needs of the diverse student body .
“These glasses not only reflect our commitment to accessibility but also our belief in every student’s right to learn, grow and succeed independently. 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,” said Ramballie.
UKZN implemented a comprehensive selection process to ensure that the glasses were awarded to students who would benefit the most. A panel comprising the Disability Support Unit’s independence trainers, disability coordinators, and information access officer evaluated candidates based on severity of visual impairment; academic need and course requirements; level of current independence; technological literacy and willingness to engage; potential 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. Imagine being able to read a printed timetable independently for the first time, confidently find your way to a lecture venue or recognise your lecturer or classmates in a crowd. These simple yet powerful moments are what Envision Glasses make possible. The glasses will also enable students to participate more confidently in group projects and seminars. With tools like Ally, the glasses can assist in real-time interpretation and engagement during fast-paced discussions,” said Rambally.
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 integrated speakers positioned near the ear that allows users to read printed and digital text via Instant or Scan Text mode; recognise faces to identify peers, lecturers, or family; navigate spaces by identifying entrances, staircases, signage and obstacles; and to find objects or people, assisting with locating personal items or connecting in busy spaces.
Support for over 60 languages and seamless smartphone connectivity makes this tool even more versatile and globally adaptable.
Mukthar Khan of Sensory Solutions, the exclusive distributor of Envision Glasses in the country said UKZN was the ideal launch partner for this technology in South Africa.”
“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,” said Khan.