NCPWD Launches Tunza Mentorship Programme for Physically Challenged Learners.
The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has initiated the Tunza Mentorship and Career Guidance Programme to support the personal and professional growth of physically challenged learners.
The government-funded initiative seeks to enhance self-confidence, academic achievement, and social integration among individuals with disabilities.
During the launch of the first-ever disability mainstreaming training at the University of Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Acting Executive Director of NCPWD, Eva Njoroge, emphasized that the programme aims to guarantee equal access to quality education and training for students with disabilities.
She stated that by eliminating barriers to learning, the council is dedicated to ensuring the full participation of disabled students in academic settings.
“The obstacles we navigate through every day, let them not define you, they are your strength, your perspective and resilience are often what stand out to give your insight to the world around you,” noted the Ag. CEO.
She further noted that everyday challenges should not define individuals but rather be seen as sources of strength, resilience, and unique perspectives that contribute positively to the world. The mentorship programme will provide students with guidance to help them reach their full potential.
Guidance for Career and Personal Development
Eva Njoroge highlighted that mentorship fosters collaboration, enabling students to work alongside experienced individuals who can help them succeed.
She pointed out that challenges, when met with the right guidance, can be confronted head-on, ensuring that students achieve their dreams despite obstacles. Encouraging the trainees to stay determined and open to learning, she stressed that every lesson learned and goal accomplished is a victory.
Titus Yego, Chief Officer of Disability Services-Education Unit at NCPWD, stressed the importance of equipping students with disabilities with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to help them overcome societal barriers.
He emphasized that such empowerment would allow them to secure employment and make meaningful contributions to Kenya’s socio-economic development.
Godana Boru, the Council’s Officer in charge of programmes, advised students never to underestimate their abilities.
He underscored that a positive attitude toward disability could lead to great achievements, cautioning that if students viewed their circumstances as impediments, they would continue to struggle. He urged them to adopt a transformative mindset.
University Commitment to Disability Mainstreaming
The University Administration, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Richard Cheruiyot, called for NCPWD’s support in streamlining infrastructure and providing assistive devices to enhance accessibility.
He reassured that the university has put in place strong policies to integrate disability issues and facilitate movement for students with physical and visual impairments.
Additionally, he encouraged students to engage in the university’s vibrant disability club, which shares valuable information regarding rights and privileges available to registered persons with disabilities (PWDs), ensuring an improved campus experience.
Dr. Orao Remy, Chairperson for Disability Mainstreaming at the University of Eldoret, reiterated the importance of ensuring that every student, regardless of their disability, receives an equal opportunity to maximize their potential.
As part of the programme, PWD trainees were educated on self-advocacy and human rights to help them articulate their needs effectively. They also received career guidance and were advised on job selection strategies, including crafting curriculum vitae (CVs) tailored to employer requirements.
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Dr. Orao encouraged students to plan their study schedules efficiently, create reliable timetables, and select suitable study environments. He also highlighted the importance of collaborating with peers to achieve academic success.
The mentorship initiative has already supported over 1,000 trainees from comprehensive schools to tertiary institutions. Moving forward, the programme aims to mentor an additional 4,000 trainees during the 2024/2025 financial year, ensuring greater inclusivity and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
NCPWD Launches Tunza Mentorship Programme for Physically Challenged Learners.
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