By Asha Shridhar | Executive Director
Introduction
Mitra Jyothi, a registered trust dedicated to empowering people with disabilities, has been tirelessly working towards the upliftment of visually impaired individuals since 1990. One of the core initiatives of Mitra Jyothi is to support the higher education of visually impaired girls from marginalized communities, especially those hailing from remote villages in Karnataka. This program aims to break barriers to education and provide these young women with the tools and resources they need to lead independent, dignified lives.
Current Program Overview
As part of our commitment to empowering visually impaired girls, Mitra Jyothi currently supports a group of eight girls pursuing their academic aspirations:
2 girls in the 2nd year of their Bachelor's program.
3 girls in the 2nd year of the Pre-University program.
3 girls in the 1st year of the Pre-University program.
These young women come from underprivileged backgrounds and have shown remarkable resilience in overcoming challenges to pursue their education.
Comprehensive Support Provided
The support offered by Mitra Jyothi extends beyond just academic funding. We provide a holistic approach to ensure these girls not only succeed in their studies but also develop the skills needed for personal growth and independence. The key components of our support program include:
Boarding and Lodging
The girls are provided with safe and comfortable accommodation, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Mitra Jyothi takes care of their daily needs, allowing them to focus on their studies.
Evening Tutors
Dedicated tutors volunteer in the evenings to assist the girls with their academic subjects. This extra guidance helps bridge the learning gaps and ensures they keep up with the curriculum.
Accessible Learning Materials
We provide various accessible educational resources, including:
Braille Books and Audio Books: Enabling the girls to read and learn independently.
Assistive Devices: Such as DAISY players, KIBO Desk, and U-Read, which facilitate easier access to educational content.
Mobility Training
To foster independence, the girls receive mobility training, equipping them with the skills to navigate their surroundings safely and confidently.
Fitness and Soft Skills Training
Physical fitness is encouraged through regular exercise sessions, helping the girls maintain good health and well-being. In addition, soft skills training is provided to boost their confidence, communication, and interpersonal skills, preparing them for future careers.
Impact of the Program
The impact of this comprehensive support is already visible. The girls have shown significant improvement in their academic performance and personal development. They are becoming more self-reliant, confident, and prepared to face future challenges. This program not only equips them with academic knowledge but also instils life skills, thereby transforming them into empowered young women ready to contribute positively to society.
Conclusion
Mitra Jyothi remains committed to supporting the higher education of visually impaired girls from marginalized communities. By offering a nurturing environment, accessible learning resources, and comprehensive skill-building opportunities, we aim to open doors to a brighter future for these young women. Our goal is to continue expanding this initiative and reach out to more girls in need, enabling them to realize their potential and lead independent lives.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters and stakeholders who make this life-changing program possible. Together, we can continue to empower these girls to achieve their dreams and become agents of change in their communities.
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