I became visually impaired in 2004 when a classmate accidentally injured me in the eye with a pencil. I hid it from my parents at first, hoping it would heal, but the pain passed and the sight didn’t return. I began to depend on the other eye. My parents later found out and helped me adjust to my new reality. Over time, the second eye also deteriorated. By 2008, I had lost sight in both eyes.
I completed my primary education at a school for the blind and proceeded to King’s College for secondary education. That’s where I first experienced stigmatisation. As one of the few visually impaired students in a predominantly sighted student environment, I faced significant challenges in navigating the academic environment.
I am now a third-year student of philosophy at the Obafemi Awolowo University. Given the vast size of the campus, it was quite challenging for a visually impaired student like myself to navigate independently. But I soon formed friendships with supportive peers who helped me adapt and thrive. I don’t rely on mobility aids, but I lean on the support of my friends. I occasionally miss classes if my friends are not available.
On the other hand, I’ve faced discrimination and stigma from some classmates, which has been disheartening. I refer to myself as ‘invisible’ because I often feel overlooked in class. Some lecturers have also been less than accommodating, often ignoring me or failing to acknowledge my presence. However, I’ve also been fortunate to have some kind-hearted lecturers who go out of their way to ensure I have equal access to learning.
I feel that the university could do more to support visually impaired students like myself. There aren’t sufficient policies, facilities, or structures in place at the university to support students with disabilities. While the Great Ife Physically Challenged Students Association (GIPCHASA) receives some attention due to the patronage of Professor Ayodele, I’m concerned that the university might not prioritise the needs of students with disabilities.
If I could redesign this university with inclusivity in mind, I would ensure that all buildings, lecture halls, and facilities are fully accessible to students with disabilities. This means that buildings would have ramps, and audio signals would be implemented at crosswalks. More importantly, I would prioritise assistive technologies like Braille displays to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to educational materials and opportunities. I believe everyone deserves respect and understanding, regardless of their abilities.
As narrated by: Adigun Oluwafemi (Ile-Ife, Nigeria).
This snippet is published as part of the series, Beyond What You See.
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