Deutsches Blindenhilfswerk

The roots of the German Blindenhilfswerk (DBHW) go back more than fifty years, to the care in convalescence homes of people blinded by war. In the 1980s the organisation adapted to altered circumstances and now focusses on international projects in the areas of eye health and education, which makes it a perfect match with our criteria.

Following the successful collaboration with DBHW in Kenya, we expanded the partnership to Ghana in 2025. The TEACH project, developed by the local organization New Horizon Foundation of the Blind (NHFB), is dedicated to improving inclusive education for students with visual impairments in the Volta Region by providing accessible technologies, training, and support so they can participate in the learning process on an equal basis. Specifically, this means equipping three selected primary schools and three secondary schools in the Volta Region with accessible technology, including computers, tablets, screen reader devices, and upgradable Braille displays. In addition, students will receive appropriate learning materials and be trained in the effective use of the assistive devices, and numerous teachers and special educators will be trained in inclusive education and the use of assistive technology.

During our project visit in October 2025, we had the chance to meet both the local project partner and some of the participating schools. In particular, the project leader of NHFB, Stephen Aflo, impressed us: despite his blindness, he completed school and university successfully and now teaches himself. His story vividly demonstrates what is possible through commitment, support, and inclusive educational structures. “The project was designed to address the long-standing inequalities faced by learners with visual impairments,” said Stephen Aflo.