Launch of the DAISY Regional Network for Africa

Launch of the DAISY Regional Network for Africa

Date: September 28, 2026

Time: 0900-1530 South Africa Standard Time

Location: Julia Room, Emperors Palace Convention Resort, Johannesburg

Registration Form

DAISY

Join education leaders, policymakers, publishers, libraries, disability organizations, and accessibility experts to advance accessible publishing and inclusive education across Africa.

This pre-conference event will bring together education leaders, policymakers, publishers, libraries, disability organisations and accessibility experts to advance accessible publishing and inclusive education across Africa. The programme is designed to share practical examples, build regional connections and launch the next phase of collaboration through the DAISY Regional Network for Africa.

The day will include a mix of short presentations, practical demonstrations, discussion and networking. Exact timings may be adjusted as plans develop, but participants can expect a full-day programme running from 09:00 to 15:30 SAST.

Programme themes

  • Official launch of the DAISY Regional Network for Africa: introducing the regional framework, membership opportunities and shared goals for accessible publishing across the continent.
  • Achieving impact through the Visionary Learning through Technology framework: exploring how technology, accessible content, training and local partnerships can support inclusive education.
  • Innovations in accessible book production: showcasing new approaches, including AI-assisted conversion, accessible audio, reading apps and practical production workflows.
  • Opening the treasure box of accessible reading: highlighting publisher collaborations, international library resources, rightsholder solutions and ways to expand access for learners and readers.
  • Setting African priorities: inviting participants to contribute to the future direction of the regional network and identify practical next steps for collaboration, training and implementation.

Confirmed speakers and contributors

Confirmed contributors include Shakila Maharaj and Deenadayalan Moodley from DAISY South Africa; Richard Orme and Dipendra Manocha from the DAISY Consortium; Fernando Botelho from UNICEF; Martin Kieti from ICEVI Africa; Monica Halil from the Accessible Books Consortium; and Denise Nicholsen from Scholarly Horizons.

The event takes place immediately before the ICEVI Africa Conference at the same venue, making it easy for delegates to participate in both events.

Apply to attend by completing a short registration form.