Twenty-two-year-old Jeel Kakkad was born to a middle income family in Mumbai, Maharashtra. At an early age, Jeel was diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. She had some limitations as a person with low vision, but she was sent to a regular school. In fact, as an only daughter, her parents ensured she received good education which would enable her to become independent.
During her schooling years, her teachers and staff were helpful in arranging for a scribe as she required assistance writing her exams. But when she entered mainstream college, she was at a loss of information. She didn’t know the rules or guidelines and how to argue with her college officials who denied her the option of a scribe.
She called the Eyeway Helpdesk for support. The Maharashtra counsellor provided a copy of the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines which clearly state that visually impaired students with a disability of 40% and above can take assistance from a scribe. Jeel was also struggling to find accessible study material to keep up with her lessons. The Eyeway counsellor helped her with audio books and notes so she could easily complete her B. Comm.
In the absence of any information about professional career choices, Jeel was contemplating to pursue a master’s degree in Commerce. But the counsellor apprised of private sector employment options in HR and other fields. She was advised to consider getting an MBA degree. Jeel was also directed towards acquiring additional skills like communication, advanced computer, mobility et cetera, which would be necessary for any job opportunity.
Her family is keen that she secure her future with a government job. On Eyeway’s guidance Jeel has enrolled for an MS-CIT course at the Victoria Memorial School for the Blind. She commutes independently practicing her mobility skills. And she is also preparing for competitive exams with Deepstambh Foundation.
She is also working on her overall general knowledge and banking know-how through lessons available on YouTube. These initiatives will prepare Jeel for both government and private sector employment.
Team Eyeway