By Omogbemi Adeola Glory and Ajagunna Ibidun Deborah
In a world where accessibility is often taken for granted, Afashima Moses Ternenge, a visually impaired student in the University of Jos, is breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo.
Despite the difficulties he faces, Afashima has refused to let his disability define him, and instead, has established himself as a staunch advocate for disabled people’s rights and a proponent of inclusivity.
On May 1st, Workers’ Day, Afashima took the initiative to organize a one-day lecture at the University of Jos, which was well-attended by students and faculty members.
The event featured a guest speaker who discussed the significance of workers’ rights and the need for social justice. Afashima’s participation in school politics demonstrates his passion for social justice and advocacy, and in 2019, he was elected as a senator from the Faculty of Arts, a feat that his peers and the university administration have recognized.
As a senator, Afashima has used his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting disabled students and advocate for their rights. One of his most notable accomplishments has been his sponsorship of a one billion naira renovation project for university hostels, aimed at improving students’ living conditions, particularly those with disabilities, and providing equal access to education.
Afashima’s dedication to empowering his fellow students with disabilities has prompted him to speak out on issues that affect them, including the need for equal educational and employment opportunities. According to him, “many students with disabilities are marginalized and excluded from mainstream society. We must build a society that is inclusive and accessible to all.”
Afashima’s advocacy efforts have also centered on improving the reading experience of visually impaired students. He believes that hiring staff who can read Braille or use assistive technology can significantly improve the learning experience for these students.
In an exclusive interview with Unijos Echo, Afashima expressed his hope that university administrators will take steps to hire staff to assist visually impaired students. “It is critical that we have staff who can read Braille or assistive technology so that we can easily access educational materials,” he stated.
Afashima’s determination to make a difference in other people’s lives inspires many. His story serves as a reminder that disability is not an inability, and that with determination and perseverance, anything is achievable.
Even as Afashima faces the challenges of being a visually impaired student, he remains steadfast in his commitment to empowering his peers and advocating for their rights. His story exemplifies the power of resilience and determination and serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
Afashima’s remarkable journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. As a beacon of hope for the marginalized and a champion of inclusivity, he embodies the true spirit of leadership and social justice.
His unwavering commitment to empowering others has ignited a spark of change, and we have no doubt that his future accomplishments will be nothing short of revolutionary. As Afashima continues to break down barriers and challenge the status quo, we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, one person can be the catalyst for a brighter, more just tomorrow.
