Developers have been called upon to make communities accessible to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) so that they can get around and about easily.
Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Ghana, DrAugustinaNaami, who made the call, said public buildings like hospitals, churches, banks, auditoriums and conference halls should be PWD-friendly to ensure the inclusive use of all.
Speaking here during the launch of Makyedie Talent Reality Show for PWDs, she expressed concern that PWDs found it difficult to access some public buildings or their stages because they were not disability- friendly.
The programme,to be held across the 16 regions of Ghana,aimed at promoting talents in order to reduce stigmatisation and enhance the employment of PWDs,
About 25 people are competing in the Greater Accra event which promises to reward the first four winners with handsome prizes.
It is being organised by Green Media Network in collaboration with NiiAnnangAdzor Foundation (NAAF) and Centre for Employment of Persons with Disability (CEPD).
DrNaami said God gave each person, including PWDs unique abilities and talents which given the right opportunity could be nurtured to enable them to contribute to national development.
She said it was “unfortunate that in our part of the world marginalisation, wrong attitudes, misinformation and acts of disrespect towards PWDs” had made it difficult for them to realise their potential.
DrNaami, therefore, urged PWDs to stay focused, believe in their potential and work hard to achieve their dreams.
The Regent of Ashaiman, NiiAnnangAdzor, advised Ghanaians to support PWDs to acquire employable skills so that they would not become a burden on society.
He encouraged them to support the talent show programme, because it would provide opportunity for participants to unearth their talents and improve their livelihood.
President of CEPD, Mr Alex Tetteh, expressed worry that PWDs faced discrimination when it came to employment and access to loans to undertake business ventures.
He expressed the hope that talent show would help break such barriers and provide more avenues to enhance their livelihood.
Some of the contestants entertained the gathering by singing, dancing and reading the news.
FROM GODFRED BLAY GIBBAH, ASHAIMAN
