The project team had the opportunity to meet an inspiring 11-year-old student with visual impairment named Minh Sothana, who is currently studying in grade 6 at Mohasamaki Primary School in Kampot town. Sothana lives in a large family that included her father, mother, older siblings, and a brother-in-law in Kraing Village, Kampot province. Sothana discovered her visual impairment when she was in grade 1. However, she had never received any proper examination, diagnosis, or intervention.
The team collaborated with eye-care specialists to organize eye-care screenings at targeted schools. During this screening, Sothana was diagnosed with farsightedness, a condition that significantly impacted her studies and daily life and she would be provided special spectacles. Before receiving her diagnosis, Sothana struggled in her classroom.
“I could not see the board clearly”
She often found herself seated in the middle or back rows of the classroom, which made it even more challenging to interact with teachers or see the writing on the board. This situation created significant barriers to her academic success, making it hard for her to achieve the outcomes she expected.
Fortunately, after receiving a proper diagnosis from an eye-care specialists, Sothana was provided with a pair of spectacles through the project. The moment she received her new glasses was filled with excitement and hope. “With the spectacles, I could learn better and my dream to become a police officer would come true” she said. The addition of these glasses transformed not just her academic experience but also her daily social interactions in her community.
Her teacher played a vital role in facilitating this transition, arranging her seating in the second row, ensuring that large letters were written on the board, and encouraging her to wear her spectacles regularly. Additionally, the teacher was always responsive to Sothana’s requests, creating an inclusive classroom environment.
With these significant supports, Sothana’s academic performance improved remarkably. She became one of the outstanding students in her class.
“My parents, brothers, and sisters are very happy because I can join all the activities within the family. Especially, I can help with household chores now.”