Sadly, in many parts of our country with high illiteracy rates, an individual born with a disability is often considered a curse. [break]
Prasain is indeed a real-life hero who has been working for the upliftment of the physically challenged people in Nepal.
“I’m helping people like me to be educated because I’ve struggled to educate myself in Nepal, since our schools and colleges aren’t accessible by wheelchair,” added Prasain.
Currently doing Master’s in Computer Application at Indira Gandhi National Open University, Prasain was struck with polio that paralyzed both his legs.
“My brother dropped me to school on his cycle and carried me to class and my friends helped me for nature’s calls,” he recalls.
After completing SLC in his hometown Morang, he came to Kathmandu for further studies but he made a grueling effort to find a college that provided a suitable environment.
“The SOS College in Bhaktapur had everything on the ground floor and they even made ramps in their stairs for me. Although it was made for me, others like me also can enroll there comfortably,” said Prasain. He is lobbying with the government to make the public places and institutions wheelchair friendly.
“At least, the Government schools, eateries, malls and similar institutions have to be wheelchair friendly,” opines Prasain.
For those who are born normally, their oily skin and bulging tummy is a huge issue, and they fail to put themselves in the shoes of the differently-abled.
“I was frustrated with my life to such an extent where I even questioned my existence. But my family and well-wishers have been intensely supportive towards me throughout,” Prasain rejoiced.
It is inspirational to see many differently-abled at the National Rehabilitation Society enthusiastically typing on the computers and learning.
NRSD has various spaces for the disabled, has a cyber training space where the differently-abled are trained in computer software, and another space where they can get vocational training in sewing and knitting.
Prasain believes in using volunteers for change and his vision was definitely put into action through his Facebook campaign to make audio-visual books for visually impaired people last year.
He was awarded by UNFPA for this campaign as part of its International Year of Youth incentive for youths who have significantly contributed to their society.
To this, he added, “Many individuals I met during this campaign said to me that I inspired them, which in turn encouraged me to move ahead. I felt that none’s misery is comparable. Sadness is a phase which will pass.”
Besides being involved at NRSD, he also writes scripts for issue-based short films. He recently directed a short film titled ‘Little Candle.’ “Little Candle is a story of child labor in Kathmandu.
The spirit of people like Sagar Prasain is indeed encouraging. “If I were physically fit, I would’ve contributed much more,” he concludes.
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