The Baptist Missionary Integrated School in Dhaka's Mirpur has been transforming the lives of visually impaired children since its establishment in 1977.
Founded by Rev Veronica Ann Campbell, the school initially catered exclusively to visually impaired girls under the Baptist Sangha School for Blind Girls. In 2007, it expanded its mission to include general education for both visually impaired and sighted students and was renamed the Baptist Missionary Integrated School.
Today, it is the country's first school with a residential hostel for visually impaired girls and operates as a non-profit organization.
Among the remarkable students who attend this institution is Cynthia Islam, a determined seventh grader. Cynthia was diagnosed with eye problems at the age of three and eventually lost her eyesight completely due to corneal dryness. However, her dreams of becoming a teacher have never wavered.
Reflecting on her journey, Cynthia shared: "I have been facing eye problems since the age of three. After studying in a mainstream school until grade 3, I am now a proud student of this school. Here, we utilize the Braille method, using a stylus and writing frame, for our examinations. When I grow up, I aspire to become a teacher."
Anika Ibnat Namira, another seventh-grade student at the school, has also faced eye problems since childhood. Her educational journey began at the Baptist Missionary Integrated School, where she has never let her lack of eyesight hold her back.
Anika expressed: "I have never regretted not having eyesight. I study through the Braille system; some exams are written, while others are conducted orally. As a member of the Sporsho Foundation, I participate in the book fair, representing our stall. The foundation provides us with free Braille books. I am passionate about singing and firmly believe that visual impairment should not hinder me from leading a fulfilling life."
The Sporsho Foundation, pioneering in Bangladesh, emerged as the first organization to publish Braille books for the visually challenged in 2008. They aim to empower individuals, including those with physical disabilities, by providing knowledge beyond textbooks, emphasizing the importance of inclusive knowledge for building a sustainable society.
Mitu Akhtar Monita, a determined 12-year-old student, aspires to become a psychologist. Mitu, who has been dealing with visual impairment since birth, shared her aspirations: "I have partial vision in one eye and clear vision in the other. Despite this challenge, I reside in the school hostel and recently joined the sixth grade. My dream is to become a psychologist."
Sathi Maria, a 14-year-old student also residing in the school hostel, has faced visual impairment since childhood due to a bout of typhoid. Despite her limited vision, Sathi remains determined and hopes to pursue a career in music.
She said: "I study in the sixth grade, and my eyesight has been impaired since my battle with typhoid. Doctors have suggested that changing my eyes could resolve this issue. I have a deep passion for singing, and my future ambition is to become a musician."
Vice Principal Leya Antara Baroi shed light on the institution's history and its inclusive education approach.
"Our school was originally established for visually impaired students. Over the past 12 years, I have witnessed the school's transformation firsthand. All our teachers are trained in the Braille system, teaching the children to write using six dots. We provide Braille education until grade two, after which visually impaired and sighted students are integrated.
"While adapting to the presence of sighted students may initially pose challenges, the students soon form strong bonds. Our school offers education up to the eighth grade, and the students exhibit an unstoppable passion for learning," she explained.
During an interview with Nahida Rahman, a guardian whose daughter Sidratul Muntaha Sophia, aged 8, attends the school, she shared her daughter's perspective.
Rahman stated: "My daughter is unaware of her visual impairment; she believes everyone is like her. However, she possesses a strong desire to learn."
Rahman expressed her hopes for her daughter, saying: "I want my daughter to grow up and make a name for herself. She possesses remarkable determination, and this school provides excellent care for visually impaired children."
In addition to academic education, the Baptist Missionary Integrated School students also develop skills in singing, dancing, and other artistic endeavours.
"We offer music classes, and the students derive great joy from learning and exhibit impressive singing abilities," the vice principal elaborated on the extracurricular activities.
The school has witnessed numerous success stories, with many former students now employed in various organizations.
Baroi shared their achievements: "Our students have gained admission to prestigious colleges, and several have already graduated. They are employed in different sectors, such as banking, counselling at eye hospitals, NGOs, and the government's Department of Social Services. Their success stands as a testament to our school's accomplishments."
Namita Halder, a teacher at the school and a former student herself, emphasized the importance of teaching Braille writing to visually impaired children.
Halder said: "The initial stage of teaching Braille is crucial for visually impaired children. At first, their interest may be lacking, and it falls upon us to inspire and motivate them. Once they become engaged in learning, their academic performance improves significantly. We currently have around 50 visually impaired students. As a former student, I understand their challenges and concerns."
The school continues to empower visually impaired students, providing them with an inclusive environment to pursue their dreams. With dedicated teachers and a supportive community, these children are defying limitations and embracing a future full of possibilities.