The National Director of the Special Education Division at Ghana Education Service (GES), Madam Helena Mensah, has called on Ghanaians to remove physical and attitudinal barriers that inhibit persons with disabilities from reaching their full potentials.
According to her, persons with disabilities deserve inclusive policies, an accessible environment and equitable access to education and employment, hence encouraging staff who are working at the various schools to work hard to ensure that their contributions are recognised.
“A sustainable future is where every individual contributes to and benefits from progress. Persons with disabilities are key agents in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focusing on reducing inequalities and promoting their rights, she said.
She made the declaration at the celebration of this year’s International Day of People with Disabilities (PwDs) at the School for the Blind at Akropong, in the Akuapem North Municipality, of the Eastern Region.
Madam Mensah pledged GES and for that matter the Ministry of Education commitment to advocate for policies and practices to help promote accessibility, equality and social justice to strengthen and improve the lives of students with disabilities.
The National Director of the Special Education Division at the GES further disclosed that GES will empower students with disabilities to take leadership roles and participate fully in decision-making processes.
According to the Director, People with Disabilities (PwDs) are trailblazers in driving meaningful change as they demonstrate courage, resilience, and innovation, hence GES’s commitment to amplify their voices and support the unique needs of learners with inclusive education.
With vital contributions by the PwDs, Madam Helena Mensah indicated that students with disabilities bring unique perspectives that enrich communities and organizations.
Mr. Joshua Addy, Acting Coordinator for Regional Directorates at the National Council for Persons with Disability (NCPD), commended GES for celebrating the efforts of PwDs and called on Ghanaians to stop the neglect, stigmatization and discrimination.
The Country representative for Chance for Childhood, a disability-focused Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Abdul Ghaffar Adam, made a call for an inclusive community where all disabilities have equal opportunity for education.
