Deltans Association of Persons with Disabilities (DELSAPWD) is a fully registered Non-governmental Organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission.
The RC number of our body is 7808769.
We gather here today as a collective of highly educated and motivated individuals with disabilities, united by a common purpose: to challenge and change the negative narratives and stereotypes surrounding persons with disabilities.
It is poignant to state unequivocally that as an association, what distinguishes us from the rest is that we are conscious of the endowed resourcefulness and attributes that God has endowed us with.
We are therefore determined to support fellow persons with disabilities who are not privileged as we are.
We aim to help them not just to get by but to also get ahead.
Towards achieving this lofty goal, we shall sacrifice our time, dissipate energy and make our resources available. We shall also reach out to corporate bodies, government, good spirited Individuals and philanthropists to join our noble efforts.
Our repertoire and planned collaborative efforts make us facilitators and resource persons who shall implement programmes for other persons with disabilities bodies across the state and persons with disabilities generally.
We shall immediately hit the ground running by organizing a counselling and therapy programmes for persons with disabilities in our society.
We shall also focus on the technical skills acquisition desirability of our members.
We intend to establish an information and communication technology centers in each local government of the state.
We have already procured computers that will enable us teach persons with disabilities the invaluable skill of artificial intelligence that will enhance their lives as an empowerment of inclusion.
For far too long, our community has been marginalized, excluded, and reduced to pity and charity. We have been portrayed as helpless, dependent, and incapable of contributing meaningfully to society.
Today, we stand before you to declare that these narratives are not only inaccurate but also damaging.
As educated and empowered individuals with disabilities, we are committed to reclaiming our rightful place as equal members of society.
We are not objects of pity or charity; we are agents of change, capable of leading, innovating, and contributing to the development of our communities.
We admit that some persons with disabilities have not acquainted themselves well judging from a culture of violence, unruly behaviour and indiscipline they have demonstrated over the years.
We are committed to carrying out an extensive orientation programmes aimed at purging these nefarious activities through counselling and therapy.
In light of the recent provision for a Delta State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, we see a unique opportunity to play a leadership role in shaping policies and programs that truly empower our community.
We are not merely seeking representation; we are demanding meaningful involvement and leadership in the decision-making processes that affect our lives.
To achieve this vision, we plan to roll out a comprehensive programme of empowerment for all persons with disabilities in our state. Our initiatives will focus on:
1. *Education and Skills Development*: Providing access to inclusive education, vocational training, and skills development programs to enhance employability and economic independence.
2. *Economic Empowerment*: Implementing entrepreneurship programs, microfinance initiatives, and job placement services to promote financial stability and self-sufficiency.
3. *Advocacy and Policy Reform*: Engaging in advocacy efforts to challenge discriminatory policies and practices, and promoting the adoption of inclusive and accessible policies in all sectors.
4. *Health and Wellness*: Providing access to comprehensive healthcare services, including rehabilitation, mental health support, and health education to promote overall well-being.
5. *Social Inclusion and Community Engagement*: Organizing community events, cultural activities, and social programs to promote social inclusion, reduce stigma, and foster a sense of belonging among persons with disabilities.
We invite all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the private sector, to join us in this effort. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society, where persons with disabilities are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
To persons with disabilities, we pledge that within our fold, there will be no form of discrimination, injustice or exclusion against any person or cluster. We shall ensure that every PwD gets his or her fair share of empowerment and motivation to achieve his or her full potentials in life.
We commend our Executive Governor, Rt. Hon (Elder) Sheriff Obovrevwori for assenting to the Delta State Disabilities Bill, which he signed into a law.
The Governor has shown so much empathy and provided support to the disability community in the state for which we are immensely grateful.
We also express a profound appreciation to the Delta State Scholarship Board that has a special scheme for Persons with disabilities.
Regrettably, members of our community have not benefitted maximally as they should due to lack of awareness and some extraneous factors.
Our association will endeavour to do everything within its power to ensure that PwDs take full advantage of the scholarship scheme.
Thank you ladies and gentlemen and everyone for you who attended today's event, which marks a watershed and defining moment for our community in Delta State.
0 Comments