Empowering Myanmar's Visually Impaired Community

Overview:

Over the past five months, a total of 8 trainees have diligently worked toward achieving their half-year academic and practical training targets. Alongside their studies, they have actively developed their social skills through interactions with classmates and dormitory friends.

Key Updates and Achievements:

Academic Progress:

Mid-term exams were conducted after the Thadingyut holidays, with all trainees achieving good results. Adjustments to the exam system were implemented to accommodate trainees’ needs, such as allowing touch signs or voice responses for those with slower Braille learning progress.

Skill Development:

Orientation and mobility skills have improved significantly, with some trainees confidently navigating the school campus independently. Practical daily living skills have been enhanced through regular practice.

Cultural and Recreational Activities:

Trainees visited Shwedagon Pagoda for a religious excursion, which also served as a stress-relief activity. They explored a night market during the same outing, enjoying local food and gaining valuable social experiences.

Extracurricular Engagements:

The International Day for Persons with Disabilities was celebrated with a school event, where a singing competition was a highlight for many students. Some trainees participated in extracurricular activities such as astrology classes and goalball, further enriching their student life.

Upcoming Goals:

As the year-end approaches, trainees are continuing their efforts toward certification and personal growth. Their commitment to learning and improving daily is evident as they prepare for the next phase of their journey.

Acknowledgment:

Thank you for your continued support and interest in improving the quality of life for persons with visual disabilities.

New Year Wishes:

As the New Year approaches, we extend our warmest wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity to all.

Prepared by MMTTC (Medical Massage Teacher Training Centre) Team

We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your interest and support in our vocational training project. We are pleased to share the progress of the current term with you.

Progress Overview:

The academic year commenced in June, and we have admitted seven trainees until now. Our program includes both manual and practical training in medical massage, spanning a total of ten months, concluding in March. At the end of the academic year, trainees will undertake a final exam to earn a Certificate of Successful Completion, certifying their proficiency in practical massage skills dealing with customers.

Trainee Background:

Four trainees lost their vision due to diseases or accidents during their youth.

One trainee was born blind and has no prior schooling or outside home experience.

Two trainees have educational experience from the School for the Blind.

In addition to vocational training, we provide support in daily living skills and Orientation & Mobility training.

Training Details:

In the first month, we introduced basic Braille literacy, presenting a significant challenge for beginners as they learn to cope with braille dots in writing and reading without vision, going on life journey without sight. This adjustment period has been emotionally demanding for some trainees, leading to homesickness and occasional crying. However, they are gradually adapting and finding joy in their studies and daily dormitory life.

Accommodation and Health:

Due to extreme summer heat and excessive rainfall, we have arranged suitable accommodation and a friendly, healthy classroom environment. We still are looking for classrooms ceiling repair and air conditioners maintenance. During the current flu season, trainees are often sick, catching colds, runny noses, and sometimes facing diarrhea. So, there was a mobile clinic health check-up arranged in July. The doctor provided health consultations, and some students received iron vitamins and other necessary medications.

Daily Routine:

Trainees are occupied with lessons in day times and private study hours in the evening. Most of them prefer audio recorded lessons and enjoy writing Braille using Slate and stylus. Teachers are attentive to each trainee’s individual needs, offering additional learning support and extended private study hours as necessary.

Funding Support Requirements:

We are still seeking financial support for essential maintenance and repairs. Specifically, we need funding for ceiling repairs in the classrooms and maintenance of air conditioners to ensure a comfortable and conducive learning environment for our trainees.

 

Please kindly check the attached document to see the project photos. 

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to updating you on further progress. 

• Project_Report_on_Empowering_Myanmars_Visually_Impaired_Community.pdf (PDF)