Ho, Volta Region β The New Horizon Foundation for the Blind (NHFB) has received recognition for its continued efforts to promote inclusive education and improve access to quality learning for persons with visual impairments in the Volta Region.
The commendation came from Richard Ametefe, Volta Regional Special Education Coordinator, who praised the organisation for its commitment to removing barriers that prevent visually impaired learners from fully participating in mainstream education.
According to Mr Ametefe, the New Horizon Foundation for the Blind has played an important role in supporting Ghana’s inclusive education agenda since the adoption of the National Inclusive Education Policy in 2015.
He noted that the foundation has implemented initiatives designed to create better educational opportunities for learners with visual impairments while helping schools and teachers develop the skills needed to support them effectively.
TEACH Project supports visually impaired learners
One of the initiatives highlighted by the Special Education Coordinator is the Technology Enhanced Accessible Classroom for Higher Impacts (TEACH) Project.
The project focuses on strengthening teachers’ capacity through specialised classroom-management skills, accessible teaching methods and technology-based tools that can improve learning for students with visual impairments.
The initiative has also focused on making learning materials more accessible, including the use of technology and specialised educational resources.
The TEACH Project has been implemented in selected schools in the Ho, Hohoe and Central Tongu areas, with support for both visually impaired learners and teachers.
Braille and technology training
Mr Ametefe also highlighted the contribution of the foundation’s E.P. Educational Centre, which provides specialised instruction in Braille and technological applications for visually impaired students.
The centre helps prepare learners with visual impairments before they transition into mainstream school environments.
Through such training, students are given an opportunity to develop skills that can improve their confidence and independence while participating in regular classrooms.
GES pledges continued partnership
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the New Horizon Foundation for the Blind to strengthen inclusive education in the Volta Region.
Mr Ametefe said continued collaboration among the GES, schools, teachers, parents and organisations supporting persons with disabilities would be important in ensuring that visually impaired learners receive the resources and assistance they need.
The broader TEACH initiative has also placed emphasis on teacher training, accessible digital learning and the production of educational materials in formats such as Braille, audio, large print and accessible digital documents.
Towards a more inclusive education system
Inclusive education remains an important part of efforts to ensure that children with disabilities are not excluded from quality education.
For visually impaired learners, access to appropriate teaching materials, assistive technology and trained teachers can make a significant difference in their ability to participate effectively in school.
The recognition of the New Horizon Foundation for the Blind therefore highlights the importance of partnerships between government institutions, schools, development organisations and communities in creating an education system where every learner has an opportunity to succeed.
The Volta Region’s continued investment in inclusive education could help create greater opportunities for learners with visual impairments and contribute to a more accessible and equitable education system.
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