After months of studying, the IT Bridge Academy’s first intake of students are now looking ahead to their graduation, internships and future careers.
In an increasingly digital world, the initiative in Kenya is making it possible for people with disabilities to access information technology (IT) training, giving them the skills and practical experience they need to compete equally in the jobs market.
Since the course resumed after Kenya’s COVID-19 lockdown, the entire cohort of students has passed their exams. They’ll be using their skills in a six-month internship at Safaricom, the largest mobile network provider in Kenya.
In March, the students will take part in the first graduation ceremony at the academy. It will be a special day for them and a chance to celebrate their hard work and achievements with their friends and families. They’ll also be joined by the academy’s second cohort, who will be able to watch and share the success of the students that came before them.
Sightsavers caught up with student Benson to hear about his reflections on the course and hopes for the future.
A teaching graduate from Kenyatta University, Benson struggled to find a job because of his visual impairment and hoped the Bridge Academy would increase his employability.
One of Benson’s favorite things about the course is how practical and hands-on it is. “Before the course, I was just imagining what the router looks like, what the switch looks like,” he says. “But when the physical equipment came, I enjoyed it the most because even though I can’t see them, I can feel them.”
Knowing how the equipment works has not only increased Benson’s confidence but allowed him to tell others about his skills. “When I tell some people that I’m in school learning about computers, they want to know how a person who can’t see can navigate the keyboard,” he says. To this, he confidently replies: “I know every keyboard key.”
Looking to the future, Benson says: “I see myself as a great person. I have improved my life, my background.” He has big dreams for his career and hopes that his internship at Safaricom will lead to a permanent job.
