Marriage Encounter motivates blind pupils

The Chilomoni-based Marriage Encounter—a grouping of Catholic families—has challenged learners with special needs to work hard in their education for them to become independent and responsible citizens.

Members of the grouping made the call Saturday last week when they visited Montfort Demonstration School in Chiradzulu where they also spent good time chatting, telling folklores and sharing meals with the learners.

Speaking after the meals, coordinating couple Thomas and Chrissy Chitala advised the pupils to desist from pitying themselves because of their situation, saying God loves everyone irrespective of physical appearance.

“The world is opening up to people with all forms of disabilities. As such, there is nothing that can stop you from achieving your goal. If you just work hard on your education, you have every reason to become managers of some of the big companies in town,” he said.

Chitala said as Catholic parents they will always strive to protect and promote the rights of learners with special needs in an effort to achieve an inclusive learning and working environment.

Speaking on behalf of fellow learners, James Charly thanked the parents for the love and assistance.

“We are very grateful because you are always thinking about us. We are even happier that you have assured us of a sustained relationship with us,” said Charly, a Standard Seven pupil with visual impairment.

At the end of the visit, the Marriage Encounter donated food and non-food items worth K130 000.