OGCIO launches campaign to promote web accessibility (with photos)
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     The Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) today (October 25) launched the Web Accessibility Campaign to promote the adoption of accessible design in websites in the public and private sectors. Through publicity, fostering know-how and promulgating technical resources, the campaign aims to facilitate access to online information by persons with disabilities and enhance their usage experience.

     Addressing the launch ceremony, the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, said, "Many enterprises and organisations have set up websites to disseminate information and provide convenient online services. To maximise the effectiveness of websites, they should cater for different needs of users so that the content can be accessed by all. Designing for web accessibility enables people in need, especially persons with disabilities, to access webpages barrier-free as their able-bodied counterparts do. Making websites accessible will provide equal opportunities for persons with disabilities to get hold of online information and services, thereby facilitating their integration into the information society and contributing to the building of a caring and inclusive community."

      Mr So added, "Enterprises and organisations, especially those whose websites are frequently used by persons with disabilities, are encouraged to adopt accessible design. To set an example, government websites will conform to Level AA requirements of the latest version (Version 2.0) of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines promulgated by the World Wide Web Consortium by 2013 through all practicable means, making the HKSAR Government one of the earliest to implement this latest standard."

     Under the campaign, a management handbook has been produced as a handy reference for enterprises and organisations on the latest international accessibility guidelines and standards. OGCIO will also showcase examples of good practices for implementing accessible websites in its portal.

     A series of free seminars is being organised to help senior executives and front-line management in charge of their corporate websites familiarise themselves with the benefits and requirements of making their websites accessible. The first seminar was held after today's launch ceremony, with over 100 participants from various organisations. More seminars are scheduled for November.

     For details of the campaign, please visit
www.ogcio.gov.hk/en/community/web_accessibility/campaign.htm.

Ends/Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:02

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