Anambra commission unveils plan to uplift PWDs

  

By Okechukwu Onuegbu 

The Chairman, Anambra State Disability Rights Commission (ASDRC), Barrister Chukwuka Ezewuzie, Thursday, announced plans to uplift the people with disabilities (PWDs) in-line with the visions of governor Chukwuma Soludo's administration of building a liveable and prosperous homelands.

Ezewuzie, at a press conference marking the 2025 world disability day, listed some of the steps the commission would take to address their challenges were development of an action plan for implementation of inclusive education policies, providing accessible infrastructure, and training teachers to support students with disabilities.

He lamented many facilities, including schools, hospitals, and Government offices, are not wheelchair accessible, making it difficult for their people to use since 7 after the passage and assent to the State Disability Rights Law 2018.

He said, "Our Accessibility audit research off the MDA’s in Anambra State, sponsored by ROLAC, our development partner, reveals that — persons with disabilities in Anambra State face numerous challenges, including limited access to public buildings, roads, transportation, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

"Persons with disabilities often face social exclusion, stigma, and discrimination, limiting their access to education, employment, and healthcare. Limited Economic Opportunities: People with disabilities have limited access to employment, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment opportunities. Despite the existence of the Anambra State Disability Rights Law, implementation and enforcement remain a challenge."

"Ensure public buildings, roads, and transportation systems are accessible to people with disabilities; support entrepreneurship, employment, and skills development for persons with disabilities; and advocate for Policy Change: Collaborate with government agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners to promote disability-inclusive policies and programs," he added.

He further revealed that the commission plans to improve the lives of PWDs through establishment of Access Market Pavilion, a cooperative society and credit facility for entrepreneurs with disabilities to promote economic empowerment.

"A centre to address educational, psychological and social needs of children and parents of children with disabilities, in partnership with RoLAC. With a view to improving and increasing school enrollment for children with disabilities. Appointment of liaison officers in local government areas, communities, and wards to oversee welfare of persons with disabilities.

"Enforcement of accessibility requirements in public and private structural facilities, parking lots, and building plans. Commemoration of the day with leadership and advocacy campaigns, tours of special education centers, and seminars on disability-focused investment opportunities. Provision of free legal assistance to persons with disabilities through ROLAC specially trained lawyers.

" These plans aim to promote inclusion, accessibility, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities in Anambra State. The commission is working to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in all aspects of social, educational, and economic life of the society. In spite of the enormous challenges facing the operations of the commission, the impact of these plans on the disability community will be revolutionary and life transforming."