By Phesheya Ian Kunene
MBABANE – The Eswatini Association of Visually Impaired Persons (ESAVIP) is set to commemorate World Braille Day tomorrow at the Manzini National Library, with celebrations beginning at 10 a.m.
Speaking on EBIS’s morning show Letishisako, ESAVIP President Nhlanhlalenhle Mtsetfwa expressed gratitude to the Southern Africa Nazarene University (SANU) for its dedication to empowering visually impaired individuals through education. He highlighted SANU’s pioneering role as the first institution in Eswatini to develop a program specifically for visually impaired students under its Bible College.
This year, SANU further cemented its reputation for inclusivity by celebrating the graduation of four visually impaired students with diplomas and degrees. Mtsetfwa also acknowledged other educational institutions, such as the University of Eswatini, for their role in supporting students with visual impairments.
Additionally, he commended the Eswatini government for establishing resource centers across the country that provide essential braille learning tools, ensuring accessibility for students in all four regions, particularly at the primary school level.
While recognizing the significance of emerging assistive technologies, Mtsetfwa emphasized that braille remains a cornerstone for literacy among visually impaired individuals. He expressed pride in the growing influence of braille program graduates in various sectors, including education, corporate roles, and government ministry boards. He also reflected on the history of braille in Eswatini, noting that the country’s first braille program began at St. Joseph’s in 1969.
He urged ESAVIP members to attend the event in large numbers to celebrate the occasion and raise awareness about the importance of braille and inclusivity.
The Global Importance of Braille
World Braille Day, celebrated annually on January 4, marks the birth of Louis Braille, the French innovator who developed the tactile writing system at the age of 15. Born in 1809 and blind since the age of three, Braille revolutionized accessibility for visually impaired individuals worldwide.
The United Nations designated the day to promote awareness about accessibility and the human rights of blind and visually impaired people. Braille plays a crucial role in enabling individuals to read, write, and access critical materials such as legal documents and educational resources, fostering independence and integration into society.
Celebrating Progress and Innovation
Events worldwide highlight advancements in braille-compatible devices, assistive technologies, and other resources that continue to enhance the lives of visually impaired individuals. The ESAVIP celebration in Manzini will align with these global traditions while showcasing Eswatini’s strides in promoting braille literacy and inclusivity.
By celebrating World Braille Day, Eswatini reaffirms its commitment to empowering the visually impaired community and fostering greater awareness, solidarity, and support for accessibility initiatives.
