One of sweetest rewards we can ever have here at IDEA is to know that we have trained our students well enough for them to be able to go out into mainstream business and secure employment!
Bohol Deaf Academy’s graduating class of 2015 has 24 students, the largest in the history of BDA. Every year we do our best to try and develop more and more opportunities for employment through our own EIGP’s (Employment Income Generating Projects). However, with so many graduates each year it’s hard to have that many long term employment options available.
In 2014 we had the opportunity to send 2 of our deaf high school students to do on-the-job training at one of the local five star resorts in Panglao. Together with an interpreter they were given the opportunity to put the vocational training they had received from BDA to work. The resort owners were thrilled with the level of skill and hardworking attitude that was displayed in our students. They decided to keep them on full time. Their other staff had even learned enough sign language that the interpreter was no longer needed.
To our great joy the Bellevue Resort recruited three more students from the class of 2015 to come and join their staff! We couldn’t be prouder!
This year Bohol Deaf Academy’s Performing Arts team also had the opportunity to perform at several different events showcasing their skills in dancing and drama. They have had the opportunity to perform in front of Ambassadors, Governors, Resort Owners and visitors from all over the world. Leaving all who see them in utter amazement of what a deaf person can do.
One of IDEA’s main objectives it to help people to understand that the deaf are not mute or retarded, they are talented, hard working, ambitious, creative, and can do just about anything that a hearing person can do, sometimes better – if given a chance.
We’re starting to see a change in perception from the people here in Bohol. Our prayer is that more and more business owners will be willing to take a chance and hire our deaf students for all types of work.