--- title: "Instituto Jô Clemente and Alstom Foundation expand Virtual Reality for Inclusion project in São Paulo; 900+ participants to date" sdDatePublished: "2026-08-11T11:34:00Z" source: "https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-news/2026/8/alstom-foundation-and-jo-clemente-institute-expand-virtual-reality-project-people-disabilities" topics: - name: "society" identifier: "medtop:14000000" - name: "transport" identifier: "medtop:20000337" - name: "health" identifier: "medtop:07000000" - name: "science and technology" identifier: "medtop:13000000" - name: "disabilities" identifier: "medtop:20000791" locations: - "São Paulo" --- Instituto Jô Clemente and Alstom Foundation expand Virtual Reality for Inclusion project in São Paulo; 900+ participants to date Alstom Foundation and Jô Clemente Institute expand virtual reality project for people with disabilities | Alstom Alstom Foundation and Jô Clemente Institute expand virtual reality project for people with disabilities Facebook (Open in a new tab) Twitter (Open in a new tab) Press contact - Brazil, Chile and Argentina The project's second phase includes routes requiring transfers at high-traffic stations and preparation for commuting to work More than 700 people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have already participated in the experience By the end of the year, new urban scenarios will be added to make the experience even closer to reality São Paulo, 4 August 2026 - Instituto Jô Clemente (IJC), in partnership with the Alstom Foundation, is expanding its "Virtual Reality for Inclusion" project, an initiative designed to foster the independence of people with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in using public transportation. In its second phase, the project introduces simulations of more complex journeys, including transfers between different metro lines and scenarios that more closely reflect the daily routines of people commuting to work or school. "We believe technology can be a powerful tool for reducing inequalities and expanding opportunities." Launched in 2023, the project uses virtual reality technology to enable people with disabilities to practice common urban mobility situations in a safe and controlled environment, including boarding and alighting trains, moving between stations, and making decisions throughout their journeys. The initiative aims to develop skills that promote independence, social inclusion, and readiness for the job market. The expansion marks a new milestone in preparing participants for the real-world challenges of urban mobility. In addition to the existing route between Instituto Jô Clemente's headquarters and Santa Cruz Station, the experience now recreates a longer journey that includes transfers at Ana Rosa Station (Line 1 – Blue) and Consolação Station (Line 2 – Green) before reaching Faria Lima Station (Line 4 – Yellow), one of São Paulo's largest business and employment hubs. By the end of 2026, the virtual environment will incorporate new features and scenarios. Future updates will include situations encountered outside metro stations, such as crossing streets, navigating public spaces, walking through commercial areas, and other elements commonly experienced during daily commutes, making the simulation even more realistic. Technology for Inclusion and Independence Since its launch, the project has used virtual reality as an inclusion tool to help participants develop skills related to spatial awareness, environmental perception, interpreting signage, time management, and decision-making during urban travel. The simulations allow participants to practice these activities in a safe, controlled environment tailored to their individual needs. Located in the Vila Clementino district of southern São Paulo, Instituto Jô Clemente operates a dedicated Virtual Reality room that has become a benchmark for applying immersive technology to promote independence and social inclusion. The project is also supported by the São Paulo Metro and Motiva. More than 900 people with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have already participated in the initiative. Indirectly, the project also benefits approximately 1,800 family members, caregivers, and members of participants' support networks, expanding opportunities for independent mobility as well as access to education and employment. "Virtual Reality allows people with disabilities to experience complex everyday situations in a safe environment while respecting each individual's pace and support needs. By simulating public transportation and the challenges of urban mobility, we help participants develop essential skills for independent living, workforce inclusion, and long-term employment success," said Ricardo Valverde, Supervisor of the Longevity Service at Instituto Jô Clemente. "We believe technology can be a powerful tool for reducing inequalities and expanding opportunities. By supporting the expansion of this project, we are helping people with disabilities develop skills that directly contribute to greater independence, social inclusion, and access to the job market," said Anne-Cécile Barbier, CSR Director and Secretary General of the Alstom Foundation. Established in November 2007, the Alstom Foundation supports and funds projects aimed at improving the living conditions and economic prospects of communities located near Alstom facilities and units worldwide. All projects are submitted and supported by Alstom employees, who work together with specialized partners and rely on the Alstom Foundation to generate a positive impact on the local environment. All projects are conducted in strong partnership with local or global NGOs with proven implementation capabilities on the ground. The impact of Alstom in Brazil (Open in a new tab) CSR Director and Secretary General of the Alstom Foundation