Islamabad (Web Desk): International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is being observed today (Tuesday) across the globe including Pakistan.
This year theme of the day is 'amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future'.
On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3, President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring that PWDs can participate fully in all aspects of society.
He called on the nation to work together to create an environment that upholds the dignity of PWDs and provides them with the resources they need to thrive.
The president stressed that the purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the rights, well-being, and inclusion of PWDs while recognizing their strength, resilience, and the invaluable contributions they and their families make to society.
He highlighted the progress Pakistan has made in supporting PWDs through various legal and institutional measures.
Among the significant milestones, the president pointed to the enactment of the ICT Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act in 2020, which represents a major achievement in ensuring better accessibility, vocational training, job opportunities, and an inclusive environment for PWDs.
This law also led to the creation of the ICT Council on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a body tasked with developing and implementing policies and advocating for the rights of PWDs.
President Zardari further noted that Pakistan recognizes the importance of special education and vocational training for PWDs, with the establishment of a nationwide network of Special Education Centres and Vocational Training Institutes.
These centres aim to provide PWDs with the necessary skills and knowledge to become self-sufficient and contribute to society.
The President also emphasized the role of government policies, such as the special employment quota for PWDs, which has helped ensure that they have access to meaningful job opportunities.
Despite these advances, Zardari acknowledged that there is still much work to be done.
He called for increased access to assistive technologies, improvements in public infrastructure, and the creation of social, legal, and economic conditions that ensure the full participation of PWDs in all sectors, including education, employment, sports, and other societal activities.
President Zardari urged the continued focus on providing quality education, healthcare, and employment based on the skills and abilities of PWDs.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1992 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
The day also commemorates the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was adopted in 2006.
This observance serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a world where PWDs can fully participate and thrive.