Blind student recognized by WAEC after losing sight while solving mathematics.

Precious Mbajiorgu, a visually-impaired student at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, recently received recognition from the West African Examination Council for being the top candidate in the 2002 Senior School Certificate Examination (physical disability category). 

In an interview, she shared that losing her sight at the age of 11 had a profound impact on her life.

Hi, I'm Precious Mbajiorgu from Oborisiala in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State. 

I'm 28 years old and currently a 100-level student at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. I wasn't born blind; I lost my sight at the age of 11 between 2007 and 2008 while attending Awada Primary School in Obosi.

One day in class, while solving a math problem on the board, I suddenly couldn't see anymore. It was like a mystery with no prior symptoms or pain. 

Despite visiting several hospitals, doctors couldn't find any defects in my sight. I managed the situation until 2018 when evangelists introduced me to Oji River Special Education Centre. 

There, I took remedial courses using learning tools like typewriters. Afterward, I completed my secondary education at St John of God Secondary School in Awka.

Adapting to my new situation by the grace of God, I accepted my fate and continued my life. Numerous hospitals couldn't diagnose my condition accurately.

 Some suggested glaucoma, but others contradicted, advising against surgery. I've been managing the pain with drugs, but due to financial constraints, obtaining them has become challenging. Yet, I persevere, dealing with the pain as it comes.

Yes, and during those moments, I turn to God in prayers and occasionally engage in deep meditation.

 Reflecting on peers facing different circumstances concerned me, leading to a day of prayer when I questioned my purpose. 

I decided not to be useless, adopting it as my life mantra. Despite visual impairment, discovering successful peers inspired me to pursue success as well.

Without specialized training, I attended remedial courses, mastering typewriters, braille, and independent mobility.

 The courses also emphasized socialization, behavior, and cohabitation skills. In March 2023, I gained admission to study Guidance and Counselling, a choice aligned with my calling, abandoning the initial idea of studying Law.

Navigating university life, I faced financial challenges, especially with costly learning aids for visually impaired students. 

Daily prayers, determination, focus, and perseverance guide me. Despite encountering occasional ill-treatment and insults, I remain resilient. My siblings pursue vocations due to financial constraints, and I appeal for assistance.

Last year, despite visual impairment, I excelled in exams through relentless studying, earning recognition from both my school and WAEC. 

WAEC recently awarded me, and I aim to replicate success in higher education, facing challenges like the lack of essential learning materials for visually impaired students. Support in obtaining a laptop and recorder would be greatly appreciated.