Eyeway Conversations with Dr. B.S.M. Kumar

In this episode of Eyeway Conversations, George Abraham speaks with Dr. B.S.M. Kumar, a visually impaired professional working at Continual Engine, a company developing AI-driven accessibility solutions for education and digital content.

Dr. Kumar was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in his teenage years, leading to progressive vision loss. Despite accessibility challenges, he pursued MSc in Chemistry and M.Tech in Chemical Analysis and Control from IIT Delhi, followed by a PhD in Analytical Chemistry focusing on Air Pollution. In the GATE examination, he scored 98 percentile in Chemistry, securing an All India Rank of 10.

Navigating higher education with limited access to Braille, screen readers, and assistive technology, he adapted innovative methods to continue his studies. His personal experiences with inaccessible academic resources shaped his understanding of digital accessibility and its impact on education.

At Continual Engine, he develops AI-powered solutions to improve digital accessibility, ensuring that learning materials, documents, and online platforms become more inclusive for visually impaired users.

Topics Covered:

• Adapting to vision loss and assistive technology

• Studying Chemistry at IIT Delhi and securing an AIR 10 in GATE
• Accessibility challenges in STEM education
• Transitioning into a career in digital accessibility and AI
• The role of AI in making educational content inclusive

Eyeway National Toll-Free Helpline:If you or someone you know with vision impairment needs guidance, contact1-800-5320-469.