Prefatory Note

In recent years, technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), have significantly reshaped accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This international webinar aims to explore the multifaceted impact of these technologies, addressing both the opportunities and challenges they present. By bringing together legal scholars, technologists, disability advocates, and policymakers, we will foster a nuanced discussion on the role of AI in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities. Key discourse include an overview of current AI-driven accessibility tools, such as speech recognition software and assistive devices, along with case studies demonstrating their effectiveness. We will examine the intersection of existing laws, like the ADA and UNCRPD, with technological advancements, while also addressing ethical implications concerning data privacy and algorithmic bias. The digital divide and the importance of inclusive design will highlight the socioeconomic barriers that limit access to these technologies. Future directions will focus on innovative solutions and the necessity for collaborative approaches among tech developers, disability organizations, and policymakers. By sharing cross-cultural insights and developing international policy recommendations, participants will contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities at this intersection. Ultimately, the dialogue will aim to shape a future where AI serves as a powerful ally in promoting accessibility and equity, ensuring that technology uplifts the lives of individuals with disabilities and fosters a more inclusive society.

Call for Papers

We invite experts, advocates, and stakeholders to join us in this essential conversation. Together, we can work towards ensuring that advancements in AI are harnessed to create a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. We also welcome papers and presentations from individuals with disabilities, law students, and engineering students who specialize in developing AI assistant tools for people with disabilities. Your contributions will be invaluable in shaping a more inclusive future.

Themes

This webinar will discuss the following five key themes:

1. Exploring the latest innovations in software, hardware, and AI-driven tools that enhance accessibility and support daily living for individuals with disabilities.
2. Discussing the critical importance of designing technologies that are accessible and usable for all, ensuring that the needs of diverse users are met.
3. Analyzing the ethical considerations surrounding AI technologies, particularly regarding privacy, bias, and the protection of the rights of individuals with disabilities.
4. Highlighting how AI can transform educational experiences and job opportunities for individuals with disabilities, fostering independence and inclusion.
5. Anticipating upcoming developments in technology and AI that could further influence the lives of individuals with disabilities, while addressing potential challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Organisers

Vidyavardhaka Law College, Mysore, in partnership with the Institute of  Legal and Policy Research and the Voice of Differently Abled Person Afghanistan

Submission Guidelines

• Submissions are accepted only in electronic form.
• Submissions must be made in Word format (.doc)/(.docx)
• The submission must be accompanied by a cover letter stating the title of the manuscript, the name, and details of the author/authors, and the author’s contact details.
• Co-authorship of a maximum of two persons is allowed.
• The proper acknowledgment must be given for such use of literature in the article submitted.
• The submission will be run through anti-plagiarism software and plagiarism in any form will result in rejection of the submission.

Submitted abstracts must not exceed 150 words, must include a title, and be accompanied by five keywords and final manuscript must be between 5000-8000 words.

Formatting Guidelines

Submitted abstracts must not exceed 150 words, include a title, and be accompanied by five keywords. The final manuscript must be between 4000 and 5000 words. All submissions must follow the 21st Edition of The Bluebook Citation Style. (A Uniform System of Legal Citation) Non-conformity will be a ground for rejection. The font shall be in Times New Roman, size 12 with a line spacing of 1.5. Footnotes shall be in Times New Roman, size 10, with single-line spacing. The selected paper will be published in a peer reviewed Journal.

How to Submit

To submit a proposal, please click on

Registration link: https://forms.gle/8sdDD7GmYSyYsJ7z5

Date: 8^th December, 2024.

Time: 10 AM to 4 PM

Last Date of Registration: 28 November 2024.

Format: Webinar (Online)

Registration Fees: None (This event is free of charge)

Certificates: Digital certificates with QR code verification will be awarded based on active participation.

Dignitaries

Chief Patron

Sri Gundappa Gowda,

Hon’ble Vidyavardhaka Educational Trust

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

 President, VV Sangha.

Er. P. Vishwanath,

Hon’ble Secretary,

Vidyavardhaka Educational Trust

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

VV Sangha,

Sri Shrishylramannavar,

Hon’ble Treasurer

Vidyavardhaka Educational Trust

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

VVSangha,

Sri Shivalingaiah,

Chairman College Governing Council,

Vidyavardhaka Educational Trust

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

Patron

Dr. Deepu P

Principal

Vidyavardhaka Law College

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

Email :: principal@vvlc.ac.in

Chief Guest

Prof. (Dr.) Maruthi TR

Professor of International Law,

Department of Studies in Law

University of Mysore

Mysore, Karnataka, India

Guest of Honour

Dr. N. Vanishree

Principal

JSS Law College, Autonomous, Mysore

Karnataka, India

Keynote Speaker

Prof. Banu M.

Assistant Professor of Computer Science 

St Joseph University,

Bengaluru-560027, Karnataka, India

Coordinator,

Dr. Sridevi Krishna

Professor of Law

Vidyavardhaka Law College

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

Email: sridevikrishna5@gmail.com  

 

Organising Secretary

Ms. Qadriya Hashimi

Programme Director

Voice of Differently Abled Persons, Afghanistan

Contact Information

For inquiries and participation confirmation, please contact the following undersigned:

Coordinator,

Dr. SRIDEVI KRISHNA

Professor of Law

Vidyavardhaka Law College

Sheshadri Iyer Road, New Bamboo Bazar,

Mysuru – 570001, Karnataka, India

Email: sridevikrishna5@gmail.com   Mobile +91 94804 68225