A new field training programme for special education students has been launched in Benghazi, marking a significant step in preparing qualified graduates to support visually impaired individuals in Libya.
According to the Libyan News Agency (LANA), the initiative is being implemented by the Faculty of Education at the University of Benghazi in cooperation with a local association for the blind. It offers hands-on training within a specialised environment, allowing students to apply academic knowledge in real-life settings.
A faculty member said the programme bridges the gap between theory and practice. “This training provides students with a comprehensive academic and professional experience, helping them develop essential skills in a specialised field,” she said.
The programme focuses on equipping students with modern methods for working with visually impaired individuals. It combines educational training with rehabilitation practices, including mobility guidance, self-care skills and social integration techniques.
Officials said the initiative is the first of its kind in Libya. It aims to enhance the practical competence of students and prepare them for direct engagement with people with visual disabilities in schools and wider society.
The programme also reflects broader efforts to improve the quality of higher education in Libya. By strengthening applied learning, institutions seek to produce graduates who are better equipped to meet labour market needs.
For visually impaired individuals, the initiative could improve access to support services. Better-trained specialists are expected to contribute to more inclusive education and stronger community integration.
However, challenges remain. Libya’s education sector continues to face resource constraints and uneven development across regions, which may limit the expansion of such programmes.
Experts say sustained investment and institutional support will be key to ensuring long-term success. Expanding similar initiatives nationwide could help build a more inclusive education system.
The programme is expected to continue in the coming months, with organisers aiming to strengthen partnerships and enhance training outcomes for future cohorts.
