Kenya has taken a significant step towards improving access to education for visually impaired learners by officially launching the transition to the Unified English Braille (UEB) system.

The move aligns the country with other nations that have adopted the globally recognised braille code that simplifies learning for persons with visual impairments.

The launch by the State Department for Basic Education in partnership with The Action Fund, marks the beginning of Kenya’s gradual shift from the Standard English Braille (SEB) to the Unified English Braille.

Speaking during the launch, Director General in the Ministry of Education Elyas Abdi applauded the transition, describing it as a major milestone in enhancing inclusive education in the country.

Dr Abdi, who represented the Principal Secretary for Basic Education Julius Bitok, said the government is committed to ensuring that no learner is left behind in accessing quality education.

“This transition is a critical step in strengthening inclusive education and ensuring that learners with visual impairments easily access learning materials,” Abdi said.

To spearhead the transition, the Department for Basic Education has appointed a 20-member Technical Working Group (TWG) to lead the process. The team comprises representatives drawn from the department and its Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs).

The Technical Working Group will guide the implementation of the Unified English Braille system, including training of teachers, development of learning materials and coordination with stakeholders in the education sector.

Dr Abdi called on education stakeholders to work with the Technical Working Group to ensure the successful implementation of the programme before the targeted timeline of 2029.

Director of Special Needs Education in the Ministry of Education Fredrick Haga, who leads the Technical Working Group, said the transition will help eliminate challenges caused by use of multiple braille systems.

He noted that the Unified English Braille was developed to address complexities found in Standard English Braille, which had different codes and rules for subjects such as mathematics, science and technology.

Dr Haga added that the adoption of the new system will simplify reading and writing for visually impaired learners and improve their learning outcomes.

The transition will also align Kenya with global braille standards, enhancing compatibility in learning resources and assistive technologies used by visually impaired learners worldwide.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Wangari Ndirangu