A Nurse’s Struggle with Visual Impairment and Institutional Discrimination
Uche Muojekwu, a 25-year-old registered nurse from Anambra State, has faced significant challenges due to her visual impairment. Diagnosed with optic nerve atrophy in October 2024, she now struggles with daily tasks that require clear vision, such as reading small text or seeing distant objects. Despite these difficulties, Uche remains determined to pursue her dream of specializing in mental health nursing.
Understanding Optic Nerve Atrophy
Optic nerve atrophy is a condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, begins to degenerate. This leads to a progressive loss of vision. While there is no cure for this condition in Nigeria, it can be managed through medication, proper use of eye drops, and careful monitoring. However, Uche emphasizes that there is currently no known treatment that can fully restore her vision.
Before her diagnosis, Uche had a congenital defect in her left eye, which meant she relied heavily on her right eye for vision. That changed in 2024 when her vision began to deteriorate rapidly.
The Mental Health Nursing Examination Experience
Uche had always been interested in mental health nursing, and after her diagnosis, she decided to pursue this path. She applied to the School of Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Enugu. With the help of a friend, she purchased the application form and prepared for the entrance examination.
On the day of the exam, Uche shared her concerns with a friend, who then contacted the Student Union Government (SUG) president. The SUG president introduced her to the examiners and informed them of her visual impairment. Uche requested reasonable accommodations, such as a bold-print question paper, extra time, or an invigilator to read the questions aloud.
However, during the examination, Uche was given the same standard question paper, which she could not read due to the small font. When she approached the examiners, they responded dismissively, questioning why she had come if she couldn’t see. One examiner even suggested that she leave the exam.
Emotional Impact and Lack of Support
The experience was deeply emotional for Uche. She felt demoralized and frustrated, especially since she had taken such a bold step to move forward with her life. Despite her efforts, the school did not provide the necessary support, and she left without signing out of the exam.
After sharing her story on social media, the Nigerian Bar Association Lawyers with Disabilities Forum took up her case. They reached out to the school, but the communication remained limited. Uche also spoke with the provost, Mr. Abituso Nwagwu, who initially offered to resolve the matter but later became unreachable.
Seeking Justice and Change
Uche is not seeking a refund or a chance to rewrite the exam. Instead, she wants an apology from the school and a commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities are given reasonable accommodations in future examinations.
She also hopes for broader systemic changes, including the enforcement of disability rights laws and increased investment in assistive technologies and accessibility tools.
Current Work and Future Goals
Despite her challenges, Uche continues to work in the recovery room, where she monitors patients’ vital signs using machines. Her role involves connecting patients to these devices and observing their conditions. While she enjoys her current position, her long-term goal remains to specialize in mental health nursing.
Uche has already secured admission to study in the United Kingdom and is working to raise the remaining tuition fees. She believes that inclusion is not about doing more but about doing what is right for everyone.
Addressing Stigma and Discrimination
Uche highlights the stigma and discrimination she has faced, even within healthcare institutions. She notes that many people lack awareness and are quick to judge without understanding. She urges the government and relevant authorities to enforce existing disability rights laws and create structures that protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
The Way Forward
Uche believes that the way forward includes holding institutions accountable, enforcing policies, and investing in resources for people with disabilities. She also emphasizes the need for targeted support, such as Braille materials, assistive technologies, and mental health services.
Her experience serves as a reminder that inclusion is not just about awareness but about action. By implementing meaningful changes, society can ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal opportunities.
