Graduation of 8 orientation advisors
20th January 2025
On 14 January, 8 orientation advisors graduated. This is a significant milestone in the history of Sjónstöðin.
On January 14th, 8 orientation advisors graduated from a program offered by University College in Denmark (UC SYD) in collaboration with IBOS.
This is a significant milestone in the history of Sjónstöðin, as it marks the first time such a program has taken place in Iceland. Sjónstöðin managed the organization of the program, which was funded by the Support for Independence fund, overseen by Blindrafélagið and the Professional Development Center of BHM.
The training was conducted at Sjónstöðin, with Danish instructors leading the teaching. Additionally, the students completed practical training under the guidance of Sjónstöðin's orientation advisors.
Sjónstöðin celebrates this milestone, as orientation and mobility are crucial components in working with blind and visually impaired individuals.
The goal of orientation is to promote individual independence and encourage activity. Orientation focuses on understanding one's environment, learning techniques and methods to navigate from one place to another, and utilizing assistive tools for mobility.
The white cane has always been one of the most important tools in orientation and mobility. In recent years, there has been a revolution in various apps and technological devices that enhance independence and freedom for individuals to move around autonomously. Additionally, 3D maps have gained traction.
Sjónstöðin congratulates the new orientation advisors on their achievement and looks forward to their valuable contributions in the years to come.