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Summary
Adeola Adetayo lost sight at age four due to untreated glaucoma. However, her experience has made her dedicated to advocating for inclusive education. She champions the implementation of Nigeria’s Disability Act, showing that determination and access to opportunities can dismantle societal barriers for people with disabilities.
In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, Adeola Adetayo stands as a beacon of determination and hope. Born in a modest neighbourhood, Adeola faced one of her life’s greatest challenges at just four years old when untreated glaucoma left her blind. Yet, her story is not about what she lost but what she gained: a passion for learning, teaching, and inspiring those around her.
Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) also known as infantile glaucoma, is a rare genetic eye disorder that prevents fluid from draining properly from the eye. It’s the most common form of paediatric glaucoma, affecting about one in every 10,000 infants.
With the steadfast support of her family, Adeola accessed specialised education early on, learning braille and later mastering assistive technology. “My parents believed in me when many thought blindness was a limitation,” she says. This foundation helped her excel academically, laying the groundwork for a future she could envision vividly, even if she could not see it.
Determined to break societal barriers, Adeola pursued a degree in Education at the University of Lagos. University life posed unique challenges, from inaccessible study materials to navigating the busy campus independently. But she embraced innovation, using screen readers and voice recording devices to succeed. Her unyielding dedication earned her a top spot in her graduating class.
Today, Adeola is a celebrated English Literature teacher at a Lagos secondary school, where she ignites a love for storytelling in her students. She leads by example, teaching grammar and poetry and the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
Her students see her as more than a teacher; she is a role model. “Ms Adetayo teaches us that nothing is impossible,” says Funmi, a senior student in her class.
Beyond the classroom, Adeola is a vocal advocate for inclusivity in education. She works closely with local organisations to improve access to resources for visually impaired students, calling for the implementation of Nigeria’s Disability Act to ensure better support systems in schools. “Every child deserves a chance to thrive,” she emphasises.
Adeola’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and support. Her life demonstrates that barriers can be dismantled with determination and access to opportunities. As she continues to shape young minds, her story inspires others to view disabilities not as limitations but as a part of the rich tapestry of human experience.
Editor’s note: Student of Mass Communication (2023/2024) Anigwe Chinelo Anthonia produced this story following BONews Service, publisher Blessing Oladunjoye’s training on Disability reporting.
