The Board Chairman of the National Council on Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Frederick Assor, has acknowledged that it is difficult for persons with disabilities to secure jobs, but he is committed to doing his best to improve their situation.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he noted that efforts are underway to create opportunities, including plans to renovate rehabilitation centres across the country to help persons with disabilities acquire skills and find employment.
He explained that many persons with disabilities who have not had formal education will benefit from these centres once they are fully restored.
“We are going across the country to ensure these centres are renovated, and we believe work will begin soon to help persons with disabilities get jobs,” he said.
Mr. Assor urged patience from aggrieved groups, stressing that government is working to address their concerns and provide suitable opportunities.
He added that he had not been directly approached by the protesting group regarding their planned demonstration.
“Personally, they have not spoken to me about the protest,” he said, expressing surprise over the decision to embark on a demonstration despite ongoing engagements.
According to him, discussions have already taken place between the sector ministry and representatives of persons with disabilities, with measures put in place to address their concerns.
“So I wonder why they are going ahead with a demonstration when discussions are ongoing,” he added.
He also pointed out that while government recruitment processes may involve protocols, efforts are being made to ensure persons with disabilities are included.
“There are protocols, and although we try to help people get jobs, it is still not enough,” he noted.
Mr. Assor further stated that persons with disabilities are supposed to be given priority in appointments at district assemblies and by government appointees, but this is not always the case.
He added that since the current administration came into office, some progress has been made in employing persons with disabilities, with about 105 individuals reportedly receiving jobs and salaries.
His comments come after a coalition of unemployed graduates with disabilities threatened a nationwide demonstration on March 24 if the government fails to provide a clear roadmap to address their long-standing unemployment concerns. The group issued a one-month ultimatum on February 9, which expired without a concrete response.
Speaking at a press conference, the group said many qualified persons with disabilities remain unemployed despite years of education and sacrifice, and they are demanding urgent action from the government.
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