Jordan’s Royal Academy brightens blind children’s education

In the kingdom of Jordan, the Royal Academy inspires visually impaired children through education and advanced technology and helps them in their day-to-day lives.

The newly opened academy is well equipped with the latest facilities and technology to teach children vital skills.

Gassem Ugizat, director of the academy, says teachers follow the standard curriculum provided by the ministry of education to give their students a well-rounded education.

"The academy consists of different departments; most important is the academic section, which teaches the syllabus of the ministry of education. We also have supportive sections, including a section for the partially sighted, sensual training, functional therapy, mobility and movement, computer section, music room and a day-to-day activities section. We also have a typewriting unit to convert the syllabus of the ministry of education using Braille," said Ugizat.

The academy was officially established in October by Jordan's King Abdullah and Queen Rania.

Education is provided from elementary to the sixth grade. Some students find the school to be an ideal place to accomplish their goals and take part in society.

"I want to study psychology and special education. I loved this because initially I asked if it was possible to become a doctor, but I was told I could not do that. Since I cannot be a doctor, I wanted to study special education," said Malak, one of the students at the academy.

A selection of techniques including practical work and several non-visual teaching methods are taught by teachers. Classes are also taught on how to type in Braille.

"This is a great feeling, as I share the experience I've gained myself and they can learn from me. They feel relaxed and happy when they are taught by someone like them," said Habeeb Mohammad, a Braille teacher who is visually impaired.

Currently, 150 students attend elementary classes in a range of subjects and are given special therapy sessions to improve their motor skills. However, the academy does not yet accomodate all age groups.

''The most important thing that pushes someone to continue his study is the will to do so. For us, the visually impaired people, education is the best way to improve one's life, '' said Ebrahim Zyoud, a visually impaired teacher at the academy.


Visually impaired children from all around Jordan come together at the academy, including those from impoverished areas and rural towns with no facilities to cater for their needs.

According to officials, the school will soon be accommodating older students seeking to earn their high school certificate.