JWSNI celebrates IDPD, Calls for Inclusive Service Delivery For Persons With Disabilities

Joy To The World Special Needs Initiative (JWSNI) commemorated the 2020 International Day of Persons With Disabilities (IDPD) in tow with the Official theme: “Building Back Better: Toward a Disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World”

The group called for inclusive service delivery in diverse areas of society as it added that Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) were amongst the most vulnerable population during the current COVID-19 outbreak.

The event was held at FCT School for Blind Children, Jabi, Abuja, under the theme: Ensuring the rights to quality education for PWDs: From commitment to action.

In her welcome remark, the Executive Director, Dr. Grace Ilori noted that “the COVID-19 pandemic provides a unique opportunity to build back better our education, health systems, and others such that they are more inclusive and responsive to the needs and human rights of people experiencing disability in all its diversity.

In her words, “Nigeria would be a better place if the health systems are inclusive of people with disability.”

“Nigeria needs to shift towards a service delivery system rooted in the communities, reaching out and empowering people with Disabilities”.

Ilori charged PWDs not to concentrate on disability as it doesn’t prevent from doing well. She also reminded them not to regret the things it interferes with.

“Don’t be disabled in spirit and body” she added

“I urge us all, by all our actions, to create a world in which all persons can enjoy equal opportunities, participate in decision-making and truly benefit from economic, social, political and cultural life.”

Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen, ably represented by Audu Asiha, in her speech saluted the doggedness of Persons with Disabilities in fighting for their rights.

She admonished Persons with Disabilities not to feel less privileged in the society, adding that disability doesn’t prevent one from performing like their non-disabled counterparts.

“Like they say, “there is ability in disability”. Don’t just because of your situation feel you are less in society. I don’t want you to look down on yourself and feel less privileged.

While taking it to society, she said: “We are not to discriminate against People with Disabilities. Likewise, the Federal Government shouldn’t discriminate against Persons with Disabilities.

“It was in light of this that the Disability Bill was signed into law by President Mohammed Buhari. Then in September this year, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities came on board. As we celebrate this year’s edition, it makes meaning to watch out for a more Disability-inclusive, accessibility and sustainable post Covid-19 era.

“Special Needs Initiative is already at the forefront of disability inclusive and sustainable programs for Persons with Disabilities. At this juncture, I would like to salute your courage for the work you are doing for Persons Living with Disabilities.”

In her speech, Barrister. Catherine Chinyere Edeh, Executive Director, Voice of Disability Initiative inspired hope in children with Disabilities.

First, she cited some successful blind friends who have done, and are doing exceptionally well in the learned profession. Herself a person with disability, Edeh urged children with disabilities to consider taking a future in the legal profession, adding that visually impaired persons are the most brilliant among the PWD clusters.

Further egging on this awesome cluster, Barr. Edeh noted: “Blind people are exceptional, they are exceptional intelligence. Your level of perception is top-notch. You listen, then grab everything though it is only recorded. Something happens in class, the non-disabled go out and start gisting but with you it’s “NO”. The way you memorize is most helpful and amazing. As a result, you always lead when it comes to assessment and examinations.

‘I want to challenge you to maintain the superiority”, Barr Catherine enthused.

The group donated writing materials – 10 rims of Braille papers, 10 pieces of slates and 10 pieces of stylus, including some refreshments to celebrate the special day.

Photos from the event;