Malnate - Students in Malnate experience inclusion with a blind dinner - - Varese News

Three evenings to learn to "see" beyond sight. On November 3, 4, and 5, the Malnate oratory hosted Dinner in the Dark , an initiative with strong educational and social value that involved students from the Iqbal Masih Comprehensive Institute.

The event was promoted by the "Abili si Diventa" Committee , in collaboration with the Varese Blind and Visually Impaired Sports Association, the La Finestra Association, and with the patronage of the Municipality of Malnate . The initiative's goal was to raise awareness among young people about inclusion and visual impairment through a hands-on, immersive experience.

During dinner, four blind waiters served the tables, guiding the participants—130 students and faculty—through an engaging sensory journey. Deprived of sight, those present learned to rely on their other senses and mutual cooperation, discovering how essential trust and communication are in everyday life.

The experience sparked curiosity and reflection. The students were able to ask questions, interact with the waiters, and gain a deeper understanding of the reality of people with visual impairments. All this was made possible thanks to the commitment of numerous volunteers , including Michele, Massimo, Elio, the members of the Varese Time Donors Association—who took care of darkening the restaurant—and Chef Ivan and his staff, who prepared a menu that was greatly appreciated by everyone.

At the end of the evenings, school principal Santo D'Angelo expressed his deep satisfaction: "A wonderful experience. The lack of light is disorienting, but it amplifies the other senses. Smells and flavors become more intense, every bite is an unexpected discovery. Hearing guides us through voices and sounds, while touch helps us orient ourselves and connect with others. It's an intimate and surprising experience, which teaches us to perceive the world in a new way."

From an educational perspective, D'Angelo added, "Dinner in the Dark is an educational experience that fosters empathy and sensory awareness, promoting inclusion and understanding of visual impairment. It's an activity that combines experiential learning and personal growth."

Dinner in the Dark is part of the inclusion education program promoted by the Abili si Diventa Committee and represents a concrete example of how school can become a place of encounter, dialogue, and sensitivity to differences.