Elizabeth Ngare, a devoted educator with a deep passion for performing arts, embarked on her remarkable journey in 1992. She started as a teacher in regular schools before transitioning to special education. Motivated by her upbringing in the Salvation Army and a profound desire to empower learners with disabilities, Elizabeth assumed the role of Deputy Principal at The Salvation Army Likoni School for the visually impaired. 

Reflecting on her pivotal role during the setup of the inABLE computer labs at Likoni School for the Blind, Elizabeth fondly recalls the transformative impact these labs have had on the students’ education. She describes it as a celebration, remarking, “It changed the mindset of all the learners because they felt they could do something that they just heard from other schools or they heard their friends talking about.” Elizabeth underscores the significance of the computer lab, emphasizing its role as a catalyst for student engagement and academic success. “The computer lab has become a gauge in the school,” she explains, “It gives the guidance to the discipline of the learners because you mess, you miss the computer classes.” 

As the headteacher, Elizabeth ensures the seamless integration of the computer labs into the school curriculum, meticulously incorporating them into the timetable and encouraging teachers to harness their potential for teaching and communication. She shares inspiring success stories of improved academic performance and future prospects, attributing much of the school’s success to the innovative use of technology. “Our school has impacted so much on the learners,” Elizabeth proudly states, “They love school and have become small researchers.” 

Elizabeth fervently advocates for the implementation of similar technology initiatives in other schools, urging educators to embrace technology as a powerful tool for empowerment and inclusion. “This is one area that will make a school have children so busy there’s no idling time,” she asserts, “There’s a lot of information they will know because we don’t just stick them so much into their academia.” Elizabeth continues to inspire and uplift students through her unwavering dedication to education and technology, embodying the transformative power of inclusive learning environments. 

In addition to her role as an educator, Elizabeth is a passionate performing artist in the musical field. She integrates music into the curriculum, providing learners with visual impairments the opportunity to build confidence and showcase their talents on national and international platforms. Elizabeth’s commitment to education, technology, and music has truly transformed the lives of her students and inspired countless others to reach for their dreams. 

Written by Eunice Kilungu (Likoni School for the Blind Computer Instructor) and Lily Ronoh-Waweru (Multimedia Storyteller)