Published on Jun 13, 2005

He runs a company that installs computer networks, develops built-to-order computers, provides telephone support to corporate customers and hopes to develop an electronic library for the disabled using MP3 players for ease of access. Considering the high level of the company’s skill and performance, how many would guess that Most Value is run by a 34-year-old businessman blinded by a childhood accident?

For Teerapan Sittiponanit, darkness is no obstacle to studying computers and setting up his own computer – and telecommunications – related company.

“When I was young, I always thought about owning my own business. Most of the blind turn to selling lottery tickets, but I didn’t know what would suit me. All I knew was that I liked computers,” said Teerapan.

To turn his dream into reality, Teerapan decided to study abroad. He chose the United States and received a one-year scholarship from the Overbrook School for the Blind in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, when he was 20, where he first studied computer programmes that used speech synthesis and screen readers.

After his year at Overbrook ended, Teerapan returned to Thailand to save enough money to go back to the US for further studies in the same field. His goal was to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

“Back in Thailand, I taught computers and fixed them to earn money to go back and study computer science. I loved learning computers and computer programmes,” said Teerapan.

He finally did return to the US, enrolling at the University of Utah.

“I spent three years at Utah but couldn’t finish my degree, because I didn’t have enough money for tuition, but I studied what I knew I’d need for computers,” he said.

Three years ago, he started Most Value, a computer-network installation company for businesses and general users. The company also makes built-to-order desktop computers.

Teerapan is also founder of the Technology Development for People with Disabilities Association and serves as its president. With 180 members, the association develops new information and technology systems for the disabled, in order to enhance their quality of life.

“Providing knowledge that can develop the abilities of the disabled means they can work and be productive, the same as anyone else,” he said.

He also intends to develop an electronic library, using MP3 players and the Internet to make it easier to access information. He is also working closely with a publisher to develop a computer audio magazine that would help the disabled develop their IT capabilities.

Jirapan Boonnoon

The Nation

jirapan@nationgroup.com