An 18-year-old visually impaired (blind) Liberian, Musa Kamara, has made a heartfelt appeal to government and compassionate individuals for assistance to fulfil his educational journey.
Musa is said to be determined to enroll at the Liberia School for the Blind, but he faces significant financial hurdles that threaten to derail his dreams of becoming a journalist.
Musa in an exclusive interview with The Inprofil Daily Newspaper at his family home in Congo Town, explained the financial requirements to enroll, which include a registration fee and a mattress, soap pack, buckets, tissue pack, washing tub, and bedspread set, are estimated at L$45,000.
He mentioned the need for additional clothing for his time at the school.
“My mother has been my only source of survival since I lost my sight. Now, she is also caring for my sick father. We simply cannot afford the amount required for me to enroll,” Musa cried.
Musa’s journey has been filled with challenges. He lost his sight at the tender age of two due to cataracts. After undergoing surgery in 2012 that restored vision in his right eye, he relied on that eye for eight years until 2020, when his sight failed again, leaving him completely blind.
“After consulting doctors, I was told my sight could not be restored. My mother even took me to Guinea and sought help from traditional healers, but nothing worked,” he recounted with a heavy heart.
Despite these adversities, Musa’s resolve to pursue education remains unshaken.
“It is painful to be in this condition, but I cannot give up. I do not wish for any of my friends or family to experience this; it is very hard,” he stated.
Musa dreams of completing his secondary education and becoming a journalist, with the hope of giving back to his family, especially his mother, who has supported him throughout his life.
“My mother has been there for me since I was a baby. Now it is time for me to give back to her,” he explained.
Musa’s story sheds light on the broader struggles faced by many individuals with disabilities, who aspire to learn and compete equally with their peers, but often lack access to opportunities.
He has meanwhile, appealed to goodwill individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government officials to help him realize his educational goals.
For those interested in supporting Musa in his quest for education, contacted him via: +231 77 297 9554 or +231 88 031 7012.