From Silence to Possibility: Amogne’s First Steps in a Classroom

For the first time in his life, Amogne Dagnaw is sitting in a classroom, learning, laughing, and discovering the world around him.

Born with a hearing impairment in a rural village with no access to inclusive education, Amogne had never been to school. After losing his mother as an infant and with his father gone in search of work, his care fell to his older sister, Degitu, who moved to Azena to earn a living serving tea and coffee.

Life was tough, and for years, Amogne stayed home isolated, without learning or support.

Everything changed when Degitu discovered the Special Needs Unit at Dr. Getnet Tadele Primary School, a safe, inclusive space for children with auditory challenges. She enrolled him, opening a door to possibility.

Today, Amogne is thriving. His teachers say he’s one of the top students in his group curious, committed, and fully engaged.

“Amogne knows what education means,” one teacher shared. “And he’s holding onto it with all his heart.”