The chairman, Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, David Anyaele, has said the society owes children with disabilities equal opportunities with others in every sphere of life.
Anyaele spoke at a sensitisation workshop for stakeholders and caregivers in Umuahia, the state capital, adding that the commission intends to raise over 250 therapists for such children.
He said, “The therapists would help identify affected children and their families, addressing challenges that prevented equal participation in school, social life and general society.
He said the workshop aims at enlightening the participants on how to support the children and promote their inclusive participation in education, healthcare and community life.
”It is our hope that participants will support the investments by the governor, Alex Otti, in education and healthcare among others to ensure inclusivity,” he said.
Anyaele, who said the workshop was the first of its kind in the state, added that it would be conducted across the state to deepen community engagement and awareness.
In a presentation, a guest speaker, Nnenna Osu, advised them to seek early intervention once signs of intellectual or learning disabilities were noticed, to ensure timely and effective support.
Osu, who is the founder of Brain Activate Initiative, said the presentation aimed to raise awareness about such child and how best to integrate and support them in society.
Similarly, the special assistant to the governor on Arts and Culture, Matilda Anyamaele, while lauding the workshop, stressed that it should be extended to the private sector and other groups.
In a response, Getrude Ukanwoko of St. Vincent De Paul Centre for Persons with Disabilities, Umuahia, thanked organisers of the workshop, describing it as very necessary.
