New computer programmes, including a braille docking station worth over $12,000, will help visually impaired students with their studies at Tupou Tertiary Institute (TTI) in Nuku'alofa.

Two students with vision disabilities, ‘Ana Talakai and ‘Ofeina Leka, attended the launch of the tools today, with ‘Ofeina demonstrating how to use the equipment.

The equipment was funded by the Australian High Commission’s Direct Aid Program supporting TTI’s partnership with Naunau 'o e 'Alamaite Tonga Association Incorporated (NATA) and Civil Society Forum of Tonga (CSFT) to provide higher education opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Mr Leon Braun, Second Secretary and Vice Consul at the Australian High Commission in Tonga said they are delighted to be able to fund the equipment.

"We hope it will make an important difference in the lives of TTI students with disabilities, especially those with visual impairments.”

Dr ‘Ungatea, Principal of TTI told Matangi Tonga that Ms Talakai is the first person with visual impairment to study at the Institute.

“When Ms Talakai entered, and in discussion with her, TTI realised that they needed computer programmes to help them in their studies.”

She said TTI purchased the equipment which will be used to support any visually impaired student who wishes to study there.

Ms Talakai is studying a Certificate Level 4 Teaching Program, which will enable her to teach other persons with visual impairment. ‘Ofeina Leka is also studying the same course.

Dr ‘Ungatea said having the two students at TTI helped them to see things differently.

“It has brought disabilities issues to us in reality. We see them everyday, we realise their special needs as we lead them in a specific path to the same classroom, where they will sit at the same desk and same position so that they can get their bearings.”

She said they have more understanding of their needs and have had to learn small things such as when speaking to them, you introduce yourself and anyone you're with and let them know after you've conversed with them that you are leaving.

“TTI is committed to continue this journey in a stronger manner, in the coming years.”