Republic of Mauritius- Braille library, first-of-its kind in Mauritius, dedicated to visually impaired students launched

In her address, Minister Dookun-Luchoomun, highlighted that the setting up of the Braille library is in line with Government’s vision to foster inclusion in various fields especially in that of education. An equitable education system, she emphasised, is pre-requisite for the integration of children having diverse physical, social and economic conditions. On this score, she underlined that each and every child regardless of their disabilities should have equal access to knowledge and information.

A series of measures, the Minister recalled, have been implemented in a bid to support the educational growth of children with disabilities. These include the setting up of the Special Education Needs Authority providing for a new institutional framework to encourage their holistic development; the provision of five scholarships to children with disabilities wishing to pursue tertiary education; and investing in the training of educators in the field of special needs.  As from this year, she pointed out, the Mauritius Institute of Education will start publishing manuals and books used at primary level in Braille version.

With regard to the LLTF, Mrs Dookun-Luchoomun indicated that the activities, programmes and actions undertaken by the institution complement the objectives of the Government which is to support the positive overall development of children with disabilities and to valorise their contribution to the socioeconomic progress of Mauritius.

For his part, Minister Gayan underscored that education is central to the life of an individual in the community and it provides opportunities for personal, social, and academic growth and development thereby setting the stage for later life experiences. He also highlighted the role of the LLTF in encouraging children with disabilities to perform well academically and to enhance their holistic development by urging their skills and talents.

Minister Sinatambou recalled that the LLTF was set up in 1983 with the objective of providing education, training and employment to blind and visually impaired persons. He observed that the institution has made tremendous progress over the years and has ensured quality education for children with disabilities at pre-primary, primary, secondary and tertiary levels. He further pointed out the need for more transcribers to write-up books in Braille versions adding that these children should not be deprived of the access to knowledge and information.