Let’s conduct sensitization campaigns to reduce stigma, discrimination against PWDs – Apaak

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has called for a nationwide sensitization campaign to reduce stigma and discrimination against Persons with Disability (PWDs).

Addressing Parliament to mark this year’s National Day for Persons with Disability, the deputy minister who doubles as Member of Parliament for Builsa South, stated that persons with disabilities deserve major attention in the country.

“Mr. Speaker, we must conduct nationwide sensitisation 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 organisations 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 as well as related policies, including the Inclusive Education Policy and the Education Strategic Plan.”

Dr. Apaak further stated the need for enacting clear legislative instruments, establishing monitoring mechanisms, and holding all stakeholders accountable to ensure that Persons with Disabilities receive their entitled protections, services, and opportunities.

“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 also urged Parliament to lead this charge 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 will humbly call on my colleagues, Members of Parliament (MPs), to join the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability. I know there are like-minded colleagues who are committed to disability inclusion,” Dr. Apaak stated.