Plan for Impact

EYES WIDE OPEN: REPORTERS PROTECTING BLIND STUDENTS

The Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ) is a central hub for regional investigative journalism initiatives in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Based in Jordan, ARIJ’s model is built around producing deep investigations, facilitating training and networking opportunities as well as innovation and development services in the field of journalism.

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> The Story

Sexual Abuse of Blind Students in Jordan

The ARIJ team at ARIJ17, held in Jordan in 2024.

Triggered by a vague tip from a source, Journalist Muna Abu Hamour spent up to a year interviewing faculty, students and parents to uncover cases of sexual abuse by teachers in a school for the blind in Amman, Jordan. The investigation found that poor security, inadequate infrastructure, lack of teacher training, and students’ limited awareness of unacceptable behavior, contributed to the problem.

READ THE REPORT HERE
“It is hard to discuss such topics in Jordan. But when you have the right plan in mind, you can overcome the obstacles.”
Ethar El Azem
Coach and Investigative Editor

Impact Summary:

External Network Impact

Parents signed a petition calling for an investigation and the installation of cameras in all classrooms. They held awareness sessions with experts to empower parents to speak out and educate their children about the issue. More parents came forward to share their children's experiences at the school.

External Individual Impact

The investigation was published in the front page of Al-Ghad Newspaper; the most widely circulated newspaper in Jordan. It sparked debate on social media pages and push back from conservative community members. The students gained awareness on how to protect themselves and flag unwanted behaviours.

External Institutional impact

The National Center for Human Rights inspected the school and filed a report to the ministry of education.

Internal Individual and Institutional Impact

Reporters acquired skills in mapping resources, interviewing victims, and identifying false leads. The team is developing a podcast series to further amplify these stories.

Takeaway

A lesson in the importance of good planning, paying close attention to clues, and adopting a flexible and patient attitude.

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