Seeing Beyond Sight: Visit of Empowerment at “Aziz Jehan Beghum Trust for Blind”

Written By: Noor Fatima Seyal

“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision,” Helen Keller once said.

This powerful sentiment deeply resonated with us during our visit to the Aziz Jehan Beghum Trust
for Blind, a school that not only educates but profoundly empowers visually impaired children.
Accompanied by my charity team, Koshish. We went there to deliver some donations, but our main
goal was to explore the environment and learn how, despite compromised sight, their students are
achieving remarkable feats, perhaps even doing better than us.
Upon our arrival to the school, we were warmly greeted by respected Miss Rizwana Kousar, Head of
the institute along her team. Taking the first glimpse of the welcoming staff and the vibrant
environment, it became clear that, it was no ordinary educational institution. This was a nurturing
space that not only challenged but also dispelled common misconceptions about blindness—a
realization that became increasingly evident for all the right reasons.
Miss Rizwana guided us through each classroom, one by one. It was remarkable to see that each room
hosted a maximum of 4-5 students, keeping in mind the individual needs and abilities of each student.
We observed innovative teaching methods firsthand, including the use of Braille for alphabet
recognition and tactile textures to help students understand various concepts.

All my fellows and I were impressed by the exceptional professionalism and expertise of the staff. I
questioned one teacher, that how much time it took to get used to, of these teaching methods? To my
surprise, many of them held masters degrees and PhDs in Special Education already, she told. Adding
to her statement, she told that before the teaching staff begin their teaching roles in school, they
undergo a rigorous three-month training program. This includes practicing all teaching activities and
methodologies while blindfolded, performing in a test. The test involves the Braille of course, because
this is the tactile form of writing taught to blind students. This rigorous preparation and training
ensure that they understand the best ways to deliver concepts and interact with students. Successfully
passing this test guarantees a high-quality and effective education for the children.
As we explored the curriculum, ranging from basic literacy to advanced subjects, we were struck by
the students’ impressive progress and growing confidence. In addition to academics, the students
received training in mobility, social skills, and posture management, contributing to their complete
personality development. Next, they took us to music room. The music room buzzed with the
melodious voices of students singing national songs and displaying their talents. Then we headed
towards game room. Yes, you heard right! They can play every sort of game, you name it, I saw the
students playing. From cricket & swiming to board games, the children were enjoying their games
there. The game boards/puzzles had specific sounds or patterns, that made them feel the boards by
their fingers and understand the patterns.

We also learned about the Trust’s origins, founded by Ms. Salma Kishwar Jan(Late) in memory of her
mother, Respected Aziz Jehan Beghum(Late), who survived bravely with her visual impairment.

Their vision of providing quality education and support to visually impaired individuals has been
successfully realized through the Trust’s relentless efforts. Hearing the success stories of former
students thriving in fields like civil services and academia from the Chairman, Mian Kamal Afzal was
very impressive. The entire conference room had goosebumps when Kamal Sahab was telling the
background, hard work, the efforts behind this amazing institute and its success.

The Trust’s influence
reaches well beyond the classroom walls, empowering students to lead independent and fulfilling
lives.

Visit to AJB Trust, left a profound impact on us, challenging our perceptions and inspiring us to
support initiatives that promote inclusivity and empowerment. May Allah bless the Trust and its
students, and may we continue to contribute to their noble cause. Reflecting on our remarkable
journey through the Aziz Jehan Beghum Trust for Blind, the words of Jonathan Swift come to mind:
"Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others." This beautifully captures the spirit and
transformative experience of our visit, highlighting the dedication and resilience we witnessed among
the students and staff at the school.

We salute the dedication of the Chairman, the staff, and the Trust as a whole for their unwavering
commitment to empowering and educating the visually impaired.