The prospect of a brighter future was not only inspired by Amin Britton’s inability to see but his innate drive for success and betterment for his family.
Hailing from Linden, Region 10, Britton has beaten the odds and completed his Degree in Communication Studies, although being visually impaired.
When he was just two-years-old, Britton was diagnosed with glaucoma. By age 6, he had undergone several surgeries to save his sight, but unfortunately, due to financial constraints, he could not continue the treatment. This led to the gradual deterioration of his sight and by age 14 he lost his sight completely in both eyes.
Despite the diagnosis, Britton braved the storm and naysayers and registered at the University of Guyana in 2018.
“No one in my family has a university degree. The Centre for Communication Studies became like a new family to me. I approached UG expecting it to be challenging because of what was told to me, but UG exceeded my expectations. I never felt uncomfortable among my peers,” Britton said.
Britton is among 3000 students who will be graduating over the next few days.
This is largest ever batch to graduate in the history of the University of Guyana. The 56th Convocation ceremonies for the Turkeyen graduands will be held at the National Cultural Centre on December 9th and 10th and on December 17 at the UG Berbice Campus for the Tain graduands.
Currently, Britton works as a radio announcer to educate and entertain persons on the “Rush Vibes” on Massive FX Radio in Linden. His future plans include pursuing a Master’s Degree in Communications – Social Change.
In extending congratulations, the Vice-Chancellor and Senior Management Team of the University have noted that a special Unit, called the Inclusion Unit, which caters specifically to students with physical, learning and other challenges provides various kinds of support for students like Britton.
An ophthalmologist and lecturer at the University of Guyana for approximately seven years, Dr Celeste Hinds, explained that childhood glaucoma, also referred to as congenital glaucoma, is a rare condition that may be inherited or caused by incorrect development of the eye’s drainage system before birth.
“If treatment is inaccessible or inadequate, as in the case of many children, vision loss is almost certain.”
After hearing of Britton’s success, Dr Hinds expressed sincere joy for his stalwart accomplishment.
“Kudos to Mr Britton for persevering despite the odds and serving as an inspiration to us all, especially those with visual disabilities,” Dr Hinds said.
This year, UG’s graduation exercises will be blended with the majority of the graduands attending face-to-face and the remaining participating virtually. (Modified UG press release)
