Persons with disabilities in Liberia face numerous challenges, ranging from unemployment to limited access to information and communication. Among these, the Deaf community remains particularly marginalized, often excluded from mainstream development efforts.
One critical area of concern is education. The Deaf community faces significant barriers in accessing quality education, a fundamental right for all citizens. Over the weekend, our reporter, George Cooper, joined the staff of Wubu Foundation for Deaf Children’s Development International on a visit to the Gbarnga Central School for the Deaf.
In an exclusive interview, Mrs. Ninga Norris Colly, founder of the school, shared the inspiring story of how her initiative began. The idea for the school was born out of a personal experience—her own son, who is deaf. After ensuring her son received some education, he encouraged her to transform a modest five-room house she was constructing into a school for deaf children. Since then, the demand has grown, with many parents entrusting her with their children, hoping for a brighter future.
However, Mrs. Colly highlighted the enormous challenges she faces in running the school. Without external support, it has been difficult to provide for the children’s needs. She called on the legislative representatives of Bong County, particularly Senator Prince Moye, to take action in supporting the school. She emphasized that many families from surrounding towns have reached out to her, seeking help for their deaf children, but the school, which is not a boarding institution, cannot accommodate them all.
Mrs. Colly’s plea is one that resonates beyond the boundaries of Gbarnga. Liberia, a nation that prides itself on being inclusive, must do more to support its Deaf community. Authorities, local and national, need to step in and ensure that no child, regardless of disability, is left behind.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Colly called on everyone to pay attention to the needs of deaf children in Gbarnga and across Liberia. It is imperative that we, as a society, recognize the importance of inclusive education and development for all, including those who are deaf. Only then can Liberia truly claim to have a place for everyone.
