As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we sat down with Ms. Agnes Makena Mugwika, the senior teacher and computer lab champion at St. Lucy’s School for the Blind in Meru, to discuss the importance of investing in women’s education and empowerment. Agnes, a trained teacher specializing in Special Needs Education, shared her insights on the transformative impact of education, particularly for visually impaired girls, and highlighted the critical role women play in driving innovation, leadership, and change in society.

“In my role, I oversee various aspects of education and curriculum development to ensure that our students receive the best possible learning experiences tailored to their unique needs and abilities,” she starts us off. 

One of inABLE’s Computer Labs For The Blind is stationed at the school and Agnes has been at the forefront of championing it. She firmly believes in the power of technology to level the playing field for students with visual impairments. According to Agnes, the school has significantly impacted the students’ ability to access information, communicate effectively, and develop essential skills for the digital age after incorporating assistive technologies and specialized software. 
 
“This integration has been particularly beneficial for girls at St. Lucy’s, as it provides them with equal opportunities to excel in STEM fields and pursue their passions without limitations.” 

Speaking of women’s and young girls’ education, Agnes highlights education’s ripple effects across entire communities and societies, such as improved health outcomes, economic empowerment, and social progress. She shared inspiring success stories of female students at St. Lucy’s who have pursued higher education and become advocates for disability rights, demonstrating the transformative power of education and empowerment. 

“Several of our female students have gone on to pursue higher education in fields traditionally dominated by men, such as engineering and computer science. Others have become advocates for disability rights and have made significant contributions to their communities. These success stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and empowerment,” she says. 

On this International Women’s Day, her message to young girls and women is simple yet powerful: education is your greatest tool for empowerment. She urges young girls and women to seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and make their voices heard. 

Agnes is convinced that women, including those with disabilities, have a crucial role to play in driving innovation, leadership, and change in society. She believes that their diverse experiences and perspectives bring new insights and solutions to the table, leading to more inclusive and equitable outcomes for all. “By supporting and empowering women, particularly those with disabilities, we can unlock untapped potential and create a more vibrant and prosperous future for everyone.” 

To further invest in women’s education and empowerment at St. Lucy’s and the wider community, Agnes says it is essential to implement comprehensive strategies that address the various barriers and challenges women face. This includes ensuring access to quality education, promoting gender equality, providing mentorship and support networks, and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive. 

She urges individuals, organizations, and policymakers to contribute to advancing women’s education and empowerment. She says this can be done by advocating for policies and investments prioritising girls’ education and supporting initiatives promoting gender equality and inclusion. It can also be achieved by providing resources and opportunities for women to develop their skills and pursue their goals and challenging stereotypes and biases that limit women’s potential.  

“By working together, we can create a world where every woman and girl can fulfil her dreams and contribute to a brighter future for all,” she concludes. 
 
Written by Lily Ronoh-Waweru: Multimedia Storyteller