Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has called for a nationwide sensitization campaign to reduce stigma and discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Addressing Parliament to mark this year’s National Day for Persons with Disabilities, the Deputy Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, stated that persons with disabilities deserve greater attention in the country.
“Mr. Speaker, we must conduct nationwide sensitization campaigns to reduce stigma and discrimination, and provide targeted training for educators, healthcare professionals, and employers on disability rights and inclusive practices.
Persons with Disabilities in Ghana and their representative organizations must be actively involved in the design, implementation, and evaluation of policies and programs to ensure their needs are met and their voices heard,” Dr. Apaak stated.
He continued:
“Mr. Speaker, we must ensure the full and comprehensive implementation of Ghana’s Disability Act in its current form, even as we work to reenact it, along with related policies such as the Inclusive Education Policy and the Education Strategic Plan.”
Dr. Apaak also emphasized the need for enacting clear legislative instruments, establishing monitoring mechanisms, and holding all stakeholders accountable to ensure that Persons with Disabilities receive the protections, services, and opportunities to which they are entitled.
“Mr. Speaker, we must improve physical, structural, and informational accessibility in public spaces, transportation, healthcare, and educational institutions. This includes investing in disability-friendly infrastructure, assistive technologies, accessible educational materials, and adapting public facilities and transport systems to meet the needs of Persons with Disabilities.”
The Builsa South lawmaker further urged Parliament to lead this effort, not only with words but with decisive action.
“Inclusive education is not merely an education issue; it is a human rights issue, a social justice issue, and a national development issue.
Mr. Speaker, I humbly call on my colleagues, Members of Parliament, to join the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability. I know there are like-minded colleagues who are committed to disability inclusion,” Dr Apaak concluded.
