Free education for the blind in Balkh; Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Private Universities

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) – Mazar-e-Sharif: At the signing ceremony of the memorandum, Abdul Rahim Safa, head of the institute, referred to the deprivations and limitations of people with disabilities, especially the blind, in the country and said: “Blind people are deprived of the government entrance exam process and access to universities in the provinces, and this process is only available to them in Kabul.”

 

He added: “The majority of blind people do not have the ability to travel to the center to participate in the entrance exam due to economic problems. We expect the government to pay serious attention to this issue.”

 

Safa stated that the purpose of signing the memorandum of understanding with Rahnavard, Turkestan, Elbegan, and Rumi universities is to provide educational opportunities for the blind so that this group does not feel hopeless and worthless and can take steps on the path of education and empowerment.

 

Officials of private universities also emphasized the abilities of blind people and said: "The government, private institutions, and society have a responsibility towards the disabled. Education and training are the best service to this disadvantaged group, and we are happy to be at their service."

 

In another part of the ceremony, a number of speakers, referring to the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS), said: "Seeking knowledge has become obligatory for men and women after the advent of Islam. Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS), as the son of the Messenger of God (PBUH), was the first figure known to be the founder of scientific and educational institutions in human history."

 

It is worth mentioning that the people of Balkh Province hold numerous programs and ceremonies every year on the occasion of the birthdays of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS), and Unity Week, which are widely welcomed.