ASSESSING THE IMPACT VISUAL IMPAIRMENT ON ACCESS TO QUALITY PRIMARY EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF NKHOTAKOTA RESOURCE CENTER IN NKHOTAKOTA DISTRICT.

The impact of visual impairment on access to quality primary education, focusing on Nkhotakota Resource Center in Nkhotakota District, Malawi. Despite national and international efforts to promote inclusive education, learners with visual impairment continue to face significant barriers that limit their access to equitable and quality primary education. The purpose of this study was to examine how visual impairment influences school enrollment, and overall learning experiences of visually impaired learners at the primary school level.
The study adopted a case study research design to allow for an in-depth understanding of the situation at Nkhotakota Resource Center. Data were collected using interviews, observations, and document analysis. Participants included learners with visual impairment, teachers, and parents. The findings revealed that learners with visual impairment experience numerous challenges that negatively affect their access to quality education. These challenges include a shortage of specialized teaching and learning materials such as Braille textbooks, and poor physical infrastructure that does not adequately support learners with visual impairment. Additionally, and negative attitudes from peers and the community further hinder effective participation in the learning process.
The study also found that although Nkhotakota Resource Center plays a vital role in supporting learners with visual impairment through specialized instruction and support services, its efforts are constrained by insufficient funding and limited institutional support. The study concludes that visual impairment significantly affects access to quality primary education when inclusive resources, and supportive learning environments are inadequate. It recommends increased government and stakeholder investment and enhanced community sensitization to promote positive attitudes toward learners with visual impairment. These measures are essential for ensuring equal access to quality primary education for all learners.