The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting the welfare, vocational training and economic empowerment of persons with disabilities in Ghana.
The minister gave the assurance during a meeting with a delegation from Future Life for Disabled Rehabilitation and Training Center, led by Emmanuel Jikun Tepa. The delegation visited the ministry to explore collaboration opportunities aimed at improving rehabilitation services, vocational skills development and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The engagement followed a request submitted to the Office of the Vice President and subsequently referred to the ministry for consideration.
Future Life for Disabled Seeks Support for Vocational Training
Future Life for Disabled is a non-profit organisation that provides rehabilitation, practical skills training and livelihood support for persons with disabilities.
Its vocational training programmes cover several areas, including shoemaking, leatherwork, furniture design, information and communication technology (ICT), beadmaking, soap production and fashion design.
During the meeting, the organisation highlighted the need for improved training facilities, modern ICT equipment and better access to markets for products made by its trainees.
The delegation also called for support to expand its programmes and equip more persons with disabilities with employable skills that can help them establish businesses, secure employment and achieve financial independence.
Government Emphasises Disability Inclusion and Economic Empowerment
Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey welcomed the engagement and stressed the importance of creating opportunities for persons with disabilities to develop their talents, acquire practical skills and contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development.
She reiterated the need for stronger collaboration between government institutions and disability-focused organisations to improve access to vocational education, employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The engagement also provides an opportunity for the ministry to better understand the challenges facing disability support organisations and identify practical ways to strengthen their programmes.
Promoting Independent Living for Persons with Disabilities
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection continues to emphasise the importance of protecting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities while promoting their participation in national development.
Improved access to vocational training, entrepreneurship support, appropriate technology and employment opportunities can help persons with disabilities become more self-reliant and improve their living standards.
The proposed collaboration with Future Life for Disabled Rehabilitation and Training Center could help expand skills development opportunities and promote greater economic inclusion.
Source: newsthemegh.com