9 Apr 2025

Beyond the Classroom: Music as a Path to Independence

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InABLE Admin
inableAdmin

Students at Thika School for the Blind were excited when they received a generous donation of musical instruments from Google. The instruments, which included a drum set, piano keyboard, saxophone, powered mixer amplifier, melodica, and guitars, were more than just a collection of equipment—it was the beginning of a music program designed to nurture the students’ artistic talents and open new doors for self-expression and empowerment. 

A group of students in school uniforms are performing music in a classroom. One student is playing a red drum set, while others are playing Yamaha keyboards and guitars. Several students are seated and watching the performance. The classroom has a simple setup with a wooden ceiling, cream-colored walls, and a red curtain behind the performers. A door is open, letting in natural light, and a few students are standing near the entrance.
A group of students in school uniforms are performing music in a classroom. One student is playing a red drum set, while others are playing Yamaha keyboards and guitars. Several students are seated and watching the performance. The classroom has a simple setup with a wooden ceiling, cream-colored walls, and a red curtain behind the performers. A door is open, letting in natural light, and a few students are standing near the entrance.

The donation was unveiled in a lively launch event that showcased the incredible potential of the students. A band of visually impaired students delivered an electrifying performance, demonstrating their musical abilities with passion and energy. Meanwhile, a group of female students captivated the audience with their soulful singing, filling the space with harmony and joy. The atmosphere was one of pure celebration, with teachers, students, and guests swaying to the rhythm, embracing the power of music to uplift and inspire. 

“This is more than just a music program; it’s an opportunity for students to develop skills that can shape their future,” said Anthony Ndrangu, Program Manager at inABLE. “Music empowers these learners to express themselves, build confidence, and even explore career paths beyond traditional academics.”   

A group of students in school uniforms are performing music in a classroom. One student is playing a red drum set, while others are playing Yamaha keyboards, saxophone and guitars. There are female students who are standing near each other and singing.
A group of students in school uniforms are performing music in a classroom. One student is playing a red drum set, while others are playing Yamaha keyboards, saxophone and guitars. There are female students who are standing near each other and singing.

For many learners, excelling academically can be challenging, but music opens doors to self-sufficiency. Whether through performing, recording, or even producing music, these students now have an avenue to harness their skills and turn their passion into a sustainable livelihood.  

Edwin, a school alumnus, multi-instrumentalist, and inABLE intern, will play a key role in guiding the students through this musical journey. “Music changed my life, and I know it can change theirs too,” he shares. I want to show these students that with the right support, they can use music to achieve independence and build meaningful careers.”  

Blending Music and Technology  

Thika School for the Blind has already made great strides in digital education, with students completing advanced computer classes and a coding boot camp spearheaded by inABLE as part of the organization’s assistive technology program. This solid foundation in technology and digital literacy positions them to explore music production, audio editing, and sound engineering—combining creativity with digital skills to expand their opportunities in the industry.  

Three male students in school uniforms play on Yamaha keyboards in a classroom setting. They appear focused on their music, with a red curtain and a guitar in the background. A drum set is partially visible in the foreground. The students are wearing navy blue sweaters with a red crest emblem, indicating they belong to the same school or institution. The room has plain cream-colored walls and a window letting in natural light.
Three male students in school uniforms play on Yamaha keyboards in a classroom setting. They appear focused on their music, with a red curtain and a guitar in the background. A drum set is partially visible in the foreground. The students are wearing navy blue sweaters with a red crest emblem, indicating they belong to the same school or institution. The room has plain cream-colored walls and a window letting in natural light.

Martin, a current student, couldn’t hide his excitement: “Having these instruments means so much to us. Now we can learn, practice, and create music in a way we never could before!”  

With the launch of the music program, inABLE continues to champion digital accessibility and disability inclusion—ensuring that learners with visual impairments have the tools they need to thrive. But there’s more work to be done! Join us in supporting this initiative and empowering students through music.

Donate today to help sustain and expand this program: https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/computer-labs-for-the-blind/ 

 Written by Linda Wairegi, Multimedia Project Manager, inABLE 

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