Multi-Format Accessibility Converter for Indian Open Educational Resources

Objective: To develop a platform that converts open-textbook content into accessible formats (audio, Indian Sign Language video, large-print) for students with disabilities in India.

Problem: Millions of students with visual, hearing, or print disabilities in India face barriers in accessing digital textbooks and open educational resources, limiting their learning opportunities. This challenge is critical for the Department of School Education & Literacy and aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), specifically the inclusion of learners with disabilities.

Solution: The proposed project is a software tool that takes open-textbook content (in English and regional languages) and automatically converts it into accessible formats: human-like audio narration, synchronized Indian Sign Language (ISL) video, and large-print PDFs. The approach employs AI/ML for text-to-speech, video synthesis, and typographic transformation, leveraging open datasets and standards.

Key Features: The student team will deliver: (1) a web-based prototype that accepts PDF/ePub/textbook input; (2) auto-generation of audio narration using Indian accent TTS engines; (3) ISL video rendering using open-source avatar libraries; (4) large-print conversion following accessibility guidelines; (5) batch processing for school admins; and (6) a dashboard for usability feedback from visually and hearing-impaired users.

Impact & Scale: This tool will measurably increase the number of accessible learning materials in government schools and public libraries, supporting the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. With scalable architecture and open-source release, state education boards and NGOs can adopt and deploy the solution nationwide.