Gideon- remarkable individuals-an occasional series

Gideon’s childhood was typical of a boy growing up in northern Ghana: Gideon could ride a donkey, herd cows, go to school and play with his friends. Gideon lived in the family compound with around 30 members of his extended family.

Then at the age of 12 he contracted cerebral spinal meningitis (CSM). He recovered but his hearing was lost for good.

Gideon changed schools, attending the Wa school for the deaf, and after completing his Junior High School exams, enrolling in Mampong-Alhwapem Senior High School. An all-rounder pupil, he reveled  in sports, playing football, volleyball and running in the 400 by 4 relay team.

After completing his Senior High School exams- the equivalent of A levels- Gideon became a Pupil Teacher at Gbeogo school for the deaf, near Bolgatanga. Unfortunately for Gideon, as happens not infrequently, he was not paid for his work, and had to leave the school.

Gideon- outside his shop

He instead harnessed his artistic talents, took a training course and set up his graphic arts business, God’s Gift Arts, in Zebilla. Gideon is always busy, making silk screen designs and rubber stamps,  and printing wall map designs, shirts and T shirts, painting signage and designing personal stationery needs.

He is an active campaigner for disability rights, is Chairman of the local branch of Ghana National Association of the Deaf, and also the coordinator for the Peace Pals of Ghana programme for Bolgatanga. Outside his shop, others who are deaf, or else wise with a disability gather with able bodied visitors –mostly men- in the afternoon , joining Victor, a member of Ghana Federation for the Disabled, dropping by to chat or sign, or to play cards.

Gideon is ambitious, both for himself and for people within the deaf community. He is in the process of applying for Gallaudet University, Washington DC, USA, on an International Student Scholarship. Gallaudet is the only higher education institute in the world in which all teaching programmes and services meet the needs of people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The university has scholarships available for applicants from developing/low income countries who can demonstrate a commitment to community and to sharing skills. Gideon has applied for a graphic arts course, with accounting and finance, to extend his own business, offering employment to others, including those who are deaf.