Sure! Here’s the translation into American English:
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In the Central African Republic, the stigma towards people with disabilities is deeply rooted, which excludes them from practically every aspect of daily life. This is the case for Zénabou, a 14-year-old girl who is deaf and non-verbal, and who has personally felt this social rejection. “I always had the painful experience of watching other children go to school with their backpacks,” recalls Zénabou, who, despite her fervent desire to learn, realized that the education system was not designed for her.
For years, access to education for children with disabilities has been practically non-existent, limiting their opportunities and hopes for the future. However, things are beginning to change thanks to an educational program initiated by the UN that is being implemented in communities like Bambari. This initiative provides essential resources such as adapted teaching materials, mobility aids, as well as Braille and sign language classes. As a result, children like Zénabou are finally being integrated into schools.
For the first time, Zénabou finds herself in a classroom, surrounded by classmates, at a moment that once seemed unreachable. “Going to school was something I never expected,” she expressed, amazed to see other deaf children in her class. This program has allowed for specialized classes to be taught within primary schools, teaching children with various disabilities crucial skills such as reading and writing.
Before accessing this new educational system, Zénabou’s life was limited to household chores. Her father, who initially worried about her future due to communication barriers, now watches her development with optimism. “My daughter is able to assert herself as a person,” he remarks, envisioning a future full of opportunities.
The Central African Republic is among the hardest places in the world for children, having endured years of conflict that have devastated its educational infrastructure, leaving one million children out of school. These challenges are even more pronounced for children with disabilities, who face additional obstacles due to the surrounding social stigma.
Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort to rebuild educational infrastructure, promote inclusive teaching practices, and combat the stigma that still persists. Inclusive education emerges as a vital element to ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to quality education and a promising future.
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Source: MiMub in Spanish
