Persons with disabilities are members of society and an important part of it. As citizens, they are entitled to equal rights and opportunities on an equal footing with others. The responsible authorities must therefore take measures to create the necessary conditions for them to enjoy these rights and opportunities.
In fact, they should not be referred to as “disabled persons”. No one, whether able-bodied or living with a disability, can demonstrate, develop and utilize 100 per cent of their capabilities. There may be things that one person is capable of doing that another person may not be able to do. Conversely, a person with a disability may be able to accomplish with ease certain tasks that people with fully functioning limbs may be unable to perform. Therefore, those who may have disabilities but are capable of achieving should be recognized and encouraged to excel.
Therefore, as all people share the same human dignity, no one should discriminate against or look down on others based on whether they have a disability. Such conduct is shameful. Those who discriminate against or demean others are themselves incapable of understanding the truth of life and the essence of human existence. We should therefore refrain from discrimination and degrading treatment against persons with disabilities, and walk together with them on the journey of life, hand in hand.
The State is making efforts to fully implement the laws, rules and policies required for persons with disabilities and to create equal opportunities for them in education, healthcare, employment and transportation. Likewise, members of the public should support one another and work together to build an equitable society.
The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement has opened nine schools under its administration to provide education, training, care and support for persons with disabilities, enabling them to learn and develop systematically. In addition, a school for young persons with disabilities has been opened in Ottarathiri Township, Nay Pyi Taw, and has begun providing care and support for children with disabilities.
Therefore, all citizens need to work together to support persons with disabilities in developing the educational, mental and physical capacities necessary to live independently with minimal reliance on others. The State and the private sector should also cooperate in creating opportunities for them to enter the workforce in practice. Greater emphasis should be placed on creating employment opportunities suited to the diverse abilities and strengths of persons with disabilities, thereby helping improve their livelihoods and quality of life.
#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar