UBPF awareness in HQ

The United Blind Persons of Fiji (UBPF) had this past week conducted educational awareness sessions within various Fiji Police Units in accordance with International White Cane Day commemorated annually on the 15th of October.

This morning an awareness session for officers based at the Fiji Police Headquarters in Laucala was conducted in a bid to educate law enforcement officers on the uses of the white cane as a mobility tool.

The UBPF team were welcomed by Deputy Director of Community Policing Superintendent of Police Uraia Davu, who also expressed the appreciation of the Commissioner of Police and acknowledged the team's efforts in raising awareness in various Fijian Police divisions before ending their campaign at Police Headquarters.

Mrs. Senimelia Seru, Mr. Niko Batidegei, Mr. Josua Nalumatna, and Mrs. Elesi Aditita accompanied Mrs. Lanieta Tuimalou, president of the United Blind Persons in Fiji.

Mrs. Tuimalou said,"A white cane principally enables its owner to check ahead of their surroundings for obstructions or orientation marks, and also helps others know of their status".

She said as October 15 is International White Cane Day, the team has been spreading the word to various organizations in favor of using white cane.

Mr. Nalumatna, a team member, also demonstrated how to communicate using Perkins braille, a skill he acquired while attending school at the Fiji Blind Society.

Mrs. Seru who lost her sight while she was a high school student, said it was initially difficult to adjust, however the foundation has enabled her to overcome challenges.

She also gave a demonstration on how to utilize a white cane and proper handling skills as the team's final educational activity.

The UBPF team said they hoped Police officers will now have a better understanding of the challenges faced by blind persons.