My Experience at the Delhi Blind School
The Delhi Blind School, also known as the Blind Relief Association, located on Mathura Road in Delhi, is dedicated to empowering visually challenged students, fostering their independence for the future. This residential boarding complex provides students with a conducive environment for both learning and living. Renowned as one of India’s foremost institutions for the visually impaired, it offers comprehensive support to address eyesight issues and develop essential life skills.
My introduction to the Blind School came through my mother, who, along with other teachers from Shri Ram School Aravali, visited the institution. During their visit, they interacted with Mr. David, the head of DBS, who showcased the various activities undertaken by the students, such as stitching clothes and cooking in the café, despite their vision challenges. Impressed, my mother suggested I meet Mr. David to discuss receiving cane stick training before returning to Lynn University in America in January.
Subsequently, my parents arranged a meeting with Mr. David to address my request. During our conversation, my deteriorating eyesight became a focal point, leading to the involvement of a cane stick trainer named Ramashray sir. He undertook the task of training me in mobility skills within and outside the school premises. Additionally, David sir suggested that I volunteer to teach English and computer skills to the students, recognizing the lack of opportunities for them to attend proper English-speaking schools in Delhi.
Commencing from July 12, I began attending the Blind School from Monday to Thursday, working on my cane stick training and engaging in teaching activities. Initially apprehensive about my teaching abilities, both Ramashray sir and David sir encouraged me to be authentic and inspire the students with my personal story of dealing with visual challenges.
Interacting with the students revealed their awe and interest in my experiences. As I shared my passion for cricket, a connection formed, showcasing the universal appeal of shared interests despite varying life challenges.
The resilience of the visually impaired students in managing their lives, from stitching clothes to utilizing software like JAWS for computer tasks, left a lasting impression. Witnessing their efforts, coupled with Ramashray sir’s guidance, instilled in me a newfound confidence in using the cane stick, even in challenging situations like heavy traffic on Mathura Road.
Overcoming initial hesitation about public perception, I embraced using the cane stick as a tool for navigation. Supported by my parents and the Blind School community, I learned the importance of prioritizing functionality over external opinions.
Noteworthy initiatives within the Blind School, such as therapeutic massage training, showcased the students’ determination to overcome challenges. Their fluency in providing massages, despite visual impairments, serves as a testament to their capabilities and resilience.
Teaching basic English and computer skills revealed the students’ limited exposure, stemming from their rural backgrounds. Encouraging them to engage with English movies, shows, and audiobooks emerged as a valuable suggestion to enhance their spoken English and computer proficiency.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I encouraged the visually impaired students to embrace basic computer skills using the JAWS software, emphasizing their relevance in the contemporary technological landscape.
Visits from students of Jamia College, Lady Shri Ram College, and Shiv Nadar School highlighted the commendable work done at the Blind School. Mr. David’s unwavering support for the students, regardless of their visual impairments, serves as an inspiration for achieving their dreams.
Despite facing a personal setback with an ankle sprain during cane stick training in October, the timely medical assistance and the opportunity to celebrate my birthday with the Blind School community underscored the supportive environment.
Advocating for accessible roads, especially for visually impaired individuals, became a focal point after my injury. I believe that societal understanding and patience are crucial when interacting with visually impaired individuals, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion.
In conclusion, my time at the Delhi Blind School was a transformative experience. The institution’s dedication to making visually impaired students independent contributors to society is commendable. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to David sir, Ramashray sir, and the entire faculty for their relentless efforts. The lessons learned and relationships formed during my tenure will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors. Looking forward, I hope to witness the establishment of more such institutions in India, contributing to the improvement of vision-related challenges among the youth.
