A Change in Perspective – Working with Students with Albinism
Written by Ester Wilson, Tanzanian Communications Coordinator
Before he began teaching at Shade, Mr. Mwigulu had never taught a student with albinism. Now, as a fourth grade teacher at Shade who has students with albinism in his class, his understanding of the condition has changed. Watch the video to see Mr. Mwigulu in action and hear how working at Shade has changed his perspective.
Once, he only knew what society taught him about people with albinism. Through his position at Shade, he has learned that albinism is a genetic condition that affects melanin, not a curse, as he was taught to believe. Mr. Mwigulu credits the training and resources at Shade with helping him deepen his understanding about albinism.
“Now, I see students who are very talented, confident, and capable. Albinism does not affect their ability. They are just like everyone else.” He has also learned how to accommodate his students with albinism, equipped with understanding regarding their visual difficulties.
“I learned to put them at the front of the classroom,” he explained. “They also cannot read small fonts like in normal books, so they use supportive tools to read.”
Most importanly, Mr. Mwigulu said his perspectives and beliefs have changed. He has moved from misunderstanding to awareness, from sympathy to deep respect.
He said he hopes his experience will encourage other teachers and communities to move beyond myths and recognize the potential of children living with albinism.
“At the end of the day, they are simply children with dreams and they deserve the same opportunities as everyone else.”
