“Intégration”, an NGO working with the visually handicapped in and around the Moroccan city of Marrakech, has been awarded an Honourable Mention by UNESCO and the International Reading Association.

© UNESCO/Association internationale pour la lecture

Visually handicapped learners are introduced to computers which help them experience the joy of reading and writing. The internet furthermore provides them with a window to the world and increases their independent in accessing information and learning resources.

Photo N° 2 © UNESCO/Association internationale pour la lecture

The NGO gives computer and Braille classes (above right and left).

Photo N° 3 © UNESCO/Association internationale pour la lecture

“Intégration” helps the visually handicapped maximize the use of whatever eyesight they have and of their other senses. It also helps the visually handicapped, particularly those struck late in life, make the most of the white cane.

Created in 1999, “Intégration” works for the social and professional inclusion of people with special needs. Since 2004, the NGO has extended its support the visually handicapped and to children with reduced mobility. It also uses digital technology to help visually handicapped students who have no access to tailor-made educational material. It has furthermore established a computer centre at the Law Faculty of Marrakech which provides specific computer training to law students and publishes books in Braille or audio format. The project has since been extended to other educational contexts where the need is equally great.

Olivier Rey (UNESCO Courrier)

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