Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Taraba State Chapter of Nigeria Association of the Blind has raised concerns over high rate of discrimination of persons with disabilities, called on the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, to assist them as they celebrate ‘International White Cane Day.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Chairman, Comrade Wanderimam Teyang and issue to Journalists in Jalingo.
The statement reads in parts,
“Today, the world is celebrating the ‘International White Cane Day’ which is an annual event aimed at promoting awareness, independence and mobility for the blind. It symbolizes their freedom and self-reliance.
The Chairman, Comr. Wanderimam Teyang decried the alarming rate of unemployment and discrimination faced by people with disabilities in Taraba State.
“Despite national and international efforts to promote inclusive development, individuals with disabilities continue to face significant barriers in accessing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
“Unemployment among people with disabilities in Taraba State has reached crisis level, exacerbating poverty and social exclusion.
“The lack of accessibility in public infrastructure, discriminatory practices, and inadequate support services perpetuate this cycle.
“Regrettably, the dire situation has forced many individuals with disabilities to resort to begging as a means of survival. Churches, marketplaces, offices, and homes have become frequent begging spots, undermining the dignity and potential of people living with disabilities.
“Sadly, politicians have historically marginalized people with disabilities, only remembering them during election periods to exploit their vulnerability and secure votes. This tokenistic approach further entrenches exclusion and denies individuals with disabilities their rightful place in society.
“However, people with disabilities possess unique skills, talents, and perspectives that can contribute significantly to the growth and development of Taraba State,” said Teyang.
According to him, people with disability can also provide innovative solutions in technology, arts, and entrepreneurship, Offer valuable insights in policy-making and decision-making processes, Enhance diversity and inclusion in the workforce, Promote social cohesion and community engagement
He said, “If given the opportunity, employment can significantly reduce the reliance on begging and unlock the full potential of individuals living with disabilities.
“We strongly believe that inclusive employment initiatives can: Restore dignity and self-worth, Foster economic independence, Promote social integration and Enhance overall well-being.”
He disclosed that the marginalization perpetuates the cycle of poverty and exclusion.
“A notable example of neglected infrastructure is the Government Workshop for the Blind in Jalingo, established to provide vital skills training for visually impaired individuals, this facility has been abandoned for years, depriving the blind community of essential resources.
“The workshop once offered: Braille and mobility training, Vocational skills development (craftsmanship, agriculture, etc.), Assistive technology and adaptive devices and Empowerment programs for economic independence.
“Renovating and reopening this workshop would: Provide critical skills training for employment, Enhance self-reliance and independence, Foster inclusive development and social integration”
The Chairman thanked the Moving Forward Governor for bringing the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Sciences to the Taraba State University, a first of its kind across all tertiary institutions in North East, Nigeria,” he said.
He also thanked the Governor for inclusivity, demonstrated by the appointment of persons with disabilities as Special Advisers.
“These bold steps has instilled hope in their community, and they strongly believe that this administration will create employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
“The Governor has shown that people with disabilities can be integral to policy-making processes, and we look forward to seeing this translate into tangible employment initiatives”.
He commended the present administration’s commitment for free education policy and requested that special attention should be given to their two special education schools in Taraba State.
“These institutions play a vital role in providing inclusive education to children with disabilities.
He urged Governor Kefas to Provide adequate funding and resources to Taraba State Special Education Schools, employ specialized teachers and staff trained in disability-specific education, enhance infrastructure and accessibility features in these schools, Integrate disability-inclusive curricula and extracurricular activities,
“Ensure equal opportunities for students with disabilities to access vocational training and higher education.
“Furthermore, we bring to your attention the pressing issue of transportation for special school students. Previously, students were provided with transportation to return to their various local governments after vacation.
“However, the current arrangement falls short, leaving students struggling to cover even half the journey. We urge you to review and improve the transportation provision for these students, ensuring their safe and dignified return home.
“Specifically, we request that your administration to Increase the transportation allowance to cover the full cost of travel, Provide dedicated vehicles for special school students, Ensure timely disbursement of transportation funds.
“This will significantly enhance the welfare and well-being of our students, alleviating the burden on their families and promoting equal access to education”.
“By prioritizing inclusive education, your administration can Promote equal opportunities for children with disabilities, Foster social integration and acceptance, Develop the skills and talents of students with disabilities and Enhance their employability and economic independence.
“We are confident that Your Excellency will look into our matter and grant our request, given your reputation as a disability-friendly leader who genuinely cares about the well-being of people with disabilities”.
“As the best Governor of Taraba State, we know you will address the long-standing issues faced by individuals with disabilities”.
“Your dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society is unparalleled,” said Teyang.
He called on His Excellency to take immediate action to address these issues such as Establish a Disability-Friendly Employment Initiative, providing training, mentorship, and job placement services for individuals with disabilities, Implement Accessibility Standards in all public buildings, transportation, and infrastructure, Enact and enforce Anti-Discrimination Policies in employment, education, and healthcare.
“Allocate resources for disability support services, including assistive technology and rehabilitation programs.
“Establish a Disability Commission or Agency to oversee implementation of disability-related policies. Renovate and reopen the Government Workshop for the Blind in Jalingo.
“Ensure inclusive representation in decision-making processes.
Provide accessible voting systems and polling stations.
“Prioritize inclusive education,” he said.