PWDs need more jobs, skills opportunities for economic independence – Dr. Apaak

The Parliamentary Caucus on Persons with Disabilities has called for increased investment in skills development, vocational training, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities to promote economic independence among persons with disabilities.

The recommendation was contained in a report signed by Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Persons with Disabilities, following a two-day stakeholder workshop held from August 1 to 2, 2026, to assess the implementation of disability-related programmes at the local government level.

The Caucus identified education and employment as key to the independence and socio-economic inclusion of persons with disabilities.

However, it noted that many persons with disabilities continue to face barriers to quality education, skills acquisition and gainful employment.

These include inadequate educational infrastructure, limited access to assistive technologies, discrimination in recruitment and insufficient opportunities for vocational and technical training.

The Caucus therefore called for closer collaboration between government, the private sector and development partners to expand employment opportunities and promote inclusive workplaces.

It recommended that, “Government, in collaboration with development partners and the private sector, should expand vocational training, entrepreneurship support, skills development and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities to promote sustainable livelihoods and economic independence.”

The report also urged MMDAs to incorporate disability-inclusive livelihood programmes into their medium-term development plans to promote sustainable economic participation and reduce dependency.

The Caucus further stressed the importance of improving access to education, skills training and economic opportunities as part of a broader approach to disability inclusion.