Aspiration, Perseverance, Optimism

Naseer Rashid lost his eye sight in an accident when he was three. A resident of the conflict ridden state of Jammu and Kashmir, where sighted students struggle to access mainstream education, Naseer’s family was unaware of ways to raise their blind child.

At 7, Naseer began his education in a Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan camp, enthusiastic and determined to work hard. As he grew older, he started exploring provisions in place for people with vision impairment, so he could cross the barriers in his path. Facing an issue with his scribe while appearing for Class X Board exam, the knowledge of government issued guidelines helped him fight for his rights.

Currently pursuing his final year of graduation, Naseer has been in regular contact with Eyeway for information on accessible study material. He has made use of free online libraries and assistive technology to further his educational goals.

But in a recent political jolt, he was confined to his home once again. As soon as the phone lines were restored in Kashmir, Naseer sought Eyeway’s help to pursue a skill-based training programme outside of the state.

His ambitions mired in confusion, Eyeway guided him with higher education options in other states. He was also made to enroll in a computer training programme under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana in Delhi.

The computer course will not only help him study independently using technology but also equip him to work alongside sighted peers.

Naseer wants to complete his Masters and Ph.D. in a more accessible environment. He aspires to return qualified and ensure that every visually impaired kid in his state continues to dream big.