The progress and prosperity of Ethiopia hinge on the inclusivity of all its citizens, with particular attention to the needs of individuals with disabilities. These members of our society, facing physical and mental challenges, warrant special considerations in all facets of life, including education, employment, transportation, and community support. It is essential for their voices to be heard and their rights to be upheld.
Take, for instance, Moges, a determined individual with visual impairment. Several years ago, he took the initiative to establish two Braille libraries at Yekatit 12 and Tekur Anbesa School in Addis Ababa. This visionary move provided invaluable resources to visually impaired students from ninth to twelfth grades, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. Now a father of three, Moges not only manages his own company but also endeavors to write children’s books, dedicated to fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Recently, “Wubetwa Ethiopia Lelejoch” (Beautiful Ethiopia for Children), a captivating children’s book, has graced the shelves of bookstores across the nation. This masterpiece aims to instill ethical values, a deep connection with the environment, and a profound appreciation for the history, culture, and heritage of Ethiopia in young readers. Comprising four chapters adorned with enchanting illustrations, the book chronicles Ethiopia as the cradle of humanity, celebrates the contributions of great individuals, and showcases the country’s remarkable landmarks. “The purpose of the book is to cultivate a love for their surroundings and to supplement their academic education with literary enrichment,” Moges emphasized.
Recognizing the scarcity of Braille literature, Moges extended his efforts to ensure that “Beautiful Ethiopia for Children” is accessible to visually impaired children. However, he acknowledges the daunting challenges posed by the conversion of standard books to Braille format, both technically and financially. Despite these obstacles, he remains resolute in his commitment to making literature more inclusive. His unwavering dedication signifies a beacon of hope for blind students yearning for literary exploration beyond auditory means.
Another testimonial to Moges’ impact is his former student turned ally, Hunelegn Melke. Reflecting on Moges’ instrumental role, Hunelegn narrates how, in 1989, Moges founded the Osis Blind Helping Association, aiming to empower visually impaired individuals through education. Through the establishment of Braille libraries and the facilitation of life skills training programs, Moges has been pivotal in nurturing a supportive environment for blind students. Hunelegn emphasizes the dire circumstances faced by the blind community in Ethiopia, particularly in education and access to literature, underscoring the pivotal importance of Moges’ advocacy.
Moges advocates for governmental cooperation and support in this noble cause, emphasizing the need for tangible efforts in workplaces and educational institutions. He urges for the provision of assistants for blind employees in government positions, recognizing it as a pivotal step towards inclusivity.
In conclusion, Moges remains steadfast in his mission to enrich the lives of children and preserve the cultural heritage of Ethiopia. His determination to release the next part of “Beautiful Ethiopia for Children” and his resolve to make it available in Braille ascertain his unwavering commitment to inclusion and diversity. By fostering a strong parental bond and advocating for accessible literature, Moges ardently strives to lay the foundation for a brighter future for Ethiopia.
This remarkable journey serves as a reminder of the essential role each of us plays in bridging the gap and fostering an inclusive society where every citizen’s voice is heard and valued.
