Empowering Mercy through Inclusion

In Zambia, disability inclusion is recognized as a fundamental human right; however, individuals with disabilities continue to face significant challenges across various aspects of life. According to the last national disability survey conducted in 2015, approximately 11% of Zambia’s adult population over 18 years of age has some form of disability. The Bauleni Special Needs Project (BSNP), working alongside its cooperating partners, is committed to addressing these challenges by providing inclusive education for children with special needs through its approach of reaching the furthest behind first.

During routine visits to assess the needs of children with deafblindness in the North-Western Province, BSNP management identified ten schools deemed suitable for hosting children with deafblindness, as designated by the Ministry of Education. On one of these visits, the team met Mercy Sandando, a 15-year-old girl with acquired deafblindness from the Mufumbwe District.

During a prior visit, it had become clear that Mercy’s mother was struggling to communicate effectively with her daughter. Despite their best efforts to improvise communication methods, challenges persisted. Recognizing the need for assistance, Mercy's mother participated in deafblind training programs conducted by BSNP in partnership with the Zambia Institute of Special Education (ZAMISE). This training dramatically changed their communication dynamics.

Following her mother's training, significant strides were made in their ability to communicate effectively. Observing this progress, BSNP management made a pivotal decision: Mercy would be brought to Lusaka to attend the BSNP School, where she would receive the specialized education she needs to thrive.

In addition to enhancing Mercy’s educational opportunities, her mother enrolled in a Special Education program at ZAMISE, focusing on communication strategies and support methods for children with deafblindness. This decision is particularly crucial given her status as a single parent, having faced numerous challenges after her husband's departure due to their daughter’s condition. By pursuing her education, she is not only preparing for employment but also positioning herself to become a strong advocate for deafblindness awareness and support in Zambia.

Achievements:

· Improved Communication: The training provided to Mercy’s mother has resulted in more effective communication strategies between the mother and daughter, enhancing their relationship and fostering Mercy’s emotional well-being.

· Access to Inclusive Education: Mercy’s transition to the BSNP School opens up a world of opportunities, allowing her to engage with an inclusive curriculum tailored to her unique needs. This will boost her educational outcomes and social skills.

· Empowerment of Caregiver: By studying Special Education, Mercy's mother will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to support her daughter effectively and improve their quality of life. Graduating from her program will also provide her with employment opportunities, empowering her to support her family independently.

· Advocacy for Change: As Mercy’s mother becomes an advocate for deafblindness, she will spread awareness and promote understanding in her community, challenging stigmas associated with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive society.

Through its dedicated efforts, BSNP is not just changing Mercy's life; it is creating ripples of positive change within her family, school, and community. This story exemplifies our commitment to uplifting children with disabilities and their families, ensuring they have access to the rights and opportunities they deserve. At BSNP, we believe that every child, including those with disabilities, has the potential to thrive when given the right support and education.