In recognition of hard work, determination and resilience, 30 youths with blind and visually impaired were awarded with certificates for their accomplishment at a graduation ceremony held on Sunday 8th October at Honiara Hotel.
They received their certificates after completing four months’ training on basic computer, literacy and Braille.
The training was made possible through the initiative of the Blind and Visually Impaired People of the Solomon Islands (BVIPSI) supported by the Commonwealth of Learning, Woodford International School, and the many volunteers who gave up their time and jointly provided computing skills and literacy training after school hours to the blind and visually impaired graduating students.
Officiating at the graduation ceremony were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) Dr. Franco Rodie and Counsellor of Human Resources Development at the Australian High Commission Dr. Tristan Armstrong.
Amongst the official guests witnessing the graduation ceremony were the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Dean of Faculty of Education and Humanity Dr. Patricia Rodie, MEHRD Director School Service Mrs. Jullian Feni Lilo and Director of National Scholarship Division, Mr. John Iromea.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Dr. Rodie commended the partnership and support given to the graduating students.
He said persons with disabilities have always been part of our Solomon Islands society but still not always accepted and looked after. And so, we are advocating what we ought to do collectively – as a society, as a government to support them realise their full potential.
He said it was inspirational to learn what may be regarded as an impossible career pathway for the persons with physical disabilities such as the 30 youths who have blind and visually impairment. The training opportunity provided to the youths increased their self-esteem and confidence as well as job opportunities to support them to sustain their livelihoods.
Dr Rodie stated that his ministry is committed to supporting people with disability now that the Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Education Framework has been developed and ready to be implemented.
The GEDSI ensures that the needs and rights of all individuals are addressed, particularly those who are marginalized or disadvantaged due to their gender, age, race, religion, nationality, disability, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, Dr Rodie said.
He added that the National Government promotes Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion and is not just a matter of justice. Rather it is a fundamental human right and the Government has rectified its obligations at the international level.
He said there are now policies in place to guide the implementation of GEDSI to address disparities in our society.
He adds that the MEHRD has developed an Inclusive Education Manual, which is the first ever major support material to accompany our significant reform through teachers, ‘to promote equal educational opportunity for all, including those who are disadvantaged, through economic, social, physical and mental factors, to develop their full potential’.
This manual will provide a practical resource for those across our education system who are endeavouring to ensure every child has a suitable and relevant education to allow them to reach their full potential. He invited the Blind and Visually Impaired People Solomon Islands group to meet with his senior management team in the not too distant future so that the Ministry can support – not only the blind and visually impaired individuals but other individuals who have physical impairment.
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