Persons with Disabilities in Anambra State have appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to provide automatic employment for qualified individuals with disabilities in the ongoing teachers recruitment exercise.
State Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke made the appeal during commemoration of the 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The event which held at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre Awka, was organized in collaboration with the Anambra State Disability Right Commission and the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare.
Themed “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs For, With and By Persons with Disabilities,” the ceremony commenced with a road show, emphasizing the capabilities of people with disabilities and the need for inclusivity.
He also appealed to relevant authorities to assist the persons with disabilities to participate in the ongoing CBT examination for recruitment of teachers, lamenting that in most cases the computers and centres for the examination are not computer friendly to persons with disabilities , hence the appeal for automatic employment of qualified disabled persons.
He said, “Persons with disabilities are marginalized in the society and are facing numerous barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare and social inclusion.
“The event is an opportunity to understand how technology can help break some barriers that have been preventing us from being great in life, the reason the theme was narrowed down to Breaking Down Barriers; Technology and Digital Inclusion.”
While drawing government attention on some of the challenges facing persons with disabilities in the state, Okeke called for use of the aggregate data of the disability community in policymaking, tracking progress and ensure accountability, in addition to regular disability survey and involving persons with disabilities in data collection processes.
Chairman on the Occasion and Chairman of Disability Right Commission, Anambra State Barrister Chucks Ezewuzie emphasized the significance of the celebration and encouraged support for Governor Soludo’s agenda.
Managing Director of ICT Agency, Anambra State, Mr. Fred Agbata represented by Mr. Tochukwu Ebeku, highlighted the agency’s commitment to inclusivity in technology, in line with Governor Soludo’s vision.
The event featured awards presentation to honor those contributing to the well-being of individuals with disabilities, dance, drama and news presentation.
