Talking Tipps Africa, a Ghanaian organisation focused on speech therapy and assistive technology, has launched an initiative to train artificial intelligence (AI) models that can better understand and assist individuals with speech impairments.
The organisation is seeking volunteers who speak Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, or Dagaare, and who also live with specific speech-related conditions, to participate in the project.
The initiative is designed to create AI models that are more attuned to the unique speech patterns of individuals with conditions like Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Cleft Palate, and Stammering. This will enable the development of more effective and accessible speech recognition and assistive technology tools.
Talking Tipps Africa is looking for volunteers aged 18 and above, who are native speakers of Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, or Dagaare, and who have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions: Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Cleft Palate, Stammering.
Those who participate in the study will be required to record their speech for a duration of 1 to 2 hours, which will be used to train the AI models. Participants will receive a transport allowance and also be compensated for their time.
“We are excited about this project and the potential it has to significantly improve the lives of individuals with speech impairments,” founder of Talking Tipps Africa, Gifty Ayoka said. “We encourage anyone who meets the criteria to reach out and help us make a difference.”
Individuals interested in participating or who know someone who might be a good fit for the programme, are encouraged to contact Talking Tipps Africa at 0558135116.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
This is really a great initiative. I think this initiative wil go a long way of helping others.