World Vision and the European Union donate Assistive Devices to Magwero School for Blind to Promote Quality Inclusive Education

With funding from the European Union in Zambia, World Vision Zambia recently donated various assistive items to Magwero School for the Blind in Chipata Eastern Province.

The donation was made through the ‘Urban and Rural Programme for Learners’ Inclusion, Foundation, and Transformation project (UPLIFT), aimed at promoting quality inclusive education to over 70 learners.

Speaking during the handover, the UPLIFT project Manager, Chibuye Mwila, said the donated items, including 3 Prodigi Connect tablets with cameras that have talk-back software, five reams of braille paper, seven braille starter packs, eight braille mathematical sets, 5 handheld magnifiers, and eight talking calculators, all amounting to K265,250, ($14,248 US Dollar) will empower the children by increasing access to inclusive and quality education.

“World Vision is a Child-centered Organization, so this donation will go a long way in making sure that the learners receive quality and inclusive education, which is a fundamental right for all children," Ms. Chibuye said.

Meanwhile, the District Education Board Secretary for Chipata Mr. Gabriel Chuto, said this donation will contribute to improving the quality of education for the learners.

“Teaching and learning will be enhanced, and the children will be the great beneficiaries. Thank you, World Vision, for this life-changing gesture; continue looking at the children's welfare," said Mr. Chuto.

And Evans, a Grade 12 pupil, said he used to face challenges during studying as it required another person to read to him.

“World Vision has heard our cry because the items that have been donated will help me to read on my own and also write exercises. Thank you, World Vision and European Union, for remembering us because now we are acquiring standard education just like everyone else who is sighted," said Evans with a smile.

The overall goal of the European Union in Zambia funded project 'Urban and Rural Programme for Learners’ Inclusion, Foundation, and Transformation through Education (UPLIFT - Education)' is to contribute to the empowerment of children and youths in Zambia through increased access to inclusive and quality education.