Ability In Disability: VISNAU Rising Beyond Expectations

By Amarachukwu Callistus

The Visually Impaired Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (VISNAU) held its annual programme at the university auditorium for students with disabilities. The programme featured the keynote speaker, Prof. Steven Ufoaroh; president of VISNAU, Charles Okonkwo; a representative of the acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. V.I. Ofor; the Student Union Government (SUG) president, Comrade Samuel Messiah; a representative of the Director for the Centre for Innovation and Career Development, Mr. Sylvester; and other dignitaries.

The keynote speaker, Prof. Steven Ufoaroh, a former chairman of ASUU, in his speech expressed his ignorance of such an organisation during his time as chairman of ASUU. He encouraged the students to open up and reach out to him concerning any problems, obstacles, or challenges they face.

The president of VISNAU, Charles Okonkwo, in his speech appreciated the keynote speaker, members of VISNAU, students, guests, and other dignitaries for making time to attend the occasion. He elaborated on the fact that visually impaired students are students with abilities, not disabilities, and called for advocacy to the appropriate authorities. He also spoke on how his predecessors upheld the integrity of the organisation and the benefits gained from being a member of VISNAU.

The SUG president, Comrade Samuel Messiah, in his speech felt very honoured to be in their midst. He highlighted three actions he had taken to support them: provision of free transportation, a constitutional amendment to include them in the SUG Senate, and awarding scholarships to two out of five VISNAU applicants under the Messiah Scholarship Scheme.

Prof. Emeka Okoye, a professor in the Department of Psychology, in his speech defined visually impaired individuals and encouraged them to see their disability as a challenge to destiny. He also cited numerous examples of disabled individuals who have achieved greatness.A representative of the Director of CICD, Mr. Sylvester, in his speech, advised VISNAU students to promote social connections, reduce isolation, foster self-care and resilience, and seek peer support.

Eze Chimerie, a graduate of History and International Relations and the IGWE of VISNAU, in his remarks, described the organisation as a platform for opportunities and support since its establishment in 2018. He stated that each programme serves as a campaign to stop the marginalisation and discrimination of visually impaired students.

Chidinma Chibogbu, a 400-level student of Philosophy, in her remarks, said she came to support her friends who are members of the organisation. She expressed that the event served as a blessing and motivation to the disabled students and highlighted the continuous support of the school to the organisation on a daily basis.

The executive council of the Red Cross Society, Anambra State, promised to give membership to VISNAU students who reach out to them.Drama presentations were staged by selected members. The VISNAU magazine was launched with some support. To conclude the event, the president of VISNAU expressed his gratitude to the students, Vice Chancellor, members of the high table, and other dignitaries.