INNER VISION: PHOTO ESSAY ABOUT SIGHT-IMPAIRED STUDENTS IN SEBETA, OROMIA, ETHIOPIA
Loosing a sight could be one disability. It is black in front view but what is an eye to who isn’t enlightened from the inside; to who don’t chase dreams and vision making a difference in the world out there. Does sight impairment be a barrier to be the person you want to be? Does it make someone less happy, loving and caring? Let’s break social stereotype and tell the world disability is nothing but strength to become and shine the Inner Vision.
Group of sight impaired students going to their class room to attend regular school. This community is isolated because of their disability and way of life from the locals living in the small town near the capital Addis Ababa.
Pair of sight impaired girls are walking away while another pair of boy are coming along. They always hold each other and walk together not to miss the road and be apart from each other. This situational attachment will make them very close and personal which makes their friendship very intimate.
Sight impaired students raising their hands to answer question refered by the teacher during class. They share the regular students class by shift where their priority is less treated while the reality should be the vice versa.
A student is learning writing by braille with the help of her teacher. Literacy is their only way to be what they want and achieve the dream and as so, they are very dedicated and eager to know more everyday. They know that is the only way they embrace their limitations naturally and socially.
A student typing by braille in a classroom test seating in the teacher desk. When someone is unable to see the outside world, it is less distructing and have more things to share and express. Being literacy one of the tools to let it out and be heard, this classroom lessons are very important for them.
A student is functioning her cell phone which has multimedia features. She is enjoying every bit of the experience as its one way of conceiving new information and having enjoyable company as well.
A student is practicing writing on the braille during break time just outside of the classroom. The writing system is a like a new language and it needs time to think of the thought in Affan Oromo (their mother tounge), translate and type. But they keep trying and to master it soon.
Very close friends and classmates playing a very fun, interactive and musical game during break time in the verenda of their classroom. In addition to the joy and priceless friendship they pursue during the game, the game also make them exercise identifying and reacting to activities around their area.
Here, on a different game, with more engagement of everyone being proactive to fast reactions, challenging each other and embracing their fears towards their obstacles to becoming whoever they want to be.
Joy, laughter, friendship, belongingness and love at one place. This is their happy place where they know they have someone who care, love and be there for them and also a place where they give those priceless inner affections as well. Here, their Inner Vision is bright and possible.
