PLWDs make case for 5% employment reservation in Kwara 

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

A non-governmental organization, Jibore Foundation, has appealed to the Kwara State government to reserve 5% employment for people with disabilities. 

Jibore is an organisation for People Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in the state.

Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Joy Bolarin, while speaking during in Ilorin at a one-day sensitisation programme to mark the International Volunteer Day with the theme; ‘Solidarity for People with Special Needs’, stated that people living with disabilities have the intellect to also contribute to the society and governance and should be carried along just like every member of the society.

She regretted that those with disabilities are constantly facing discrimination and exclusion from job opportunities despite being qualified. 

“In decision making, their contributions are not considered, neither are their voices heard. They don’t have access to quality and inclusive education especially in rural areas,” she said. 

Bolarin explained that people with disabilities don’t need pity but support from all stakeholders to overcome challenges of exclusion they constantly experience due to their condition. 

In his speech, Assistant Legal Officer, National Human Rights Commission, Dr Ahmed Rufai, emphasised that children with special needs have the right to education and rights to participation.

He warned parents against using their children with special needs for begging on the streets, adding that this is against the law. 

Rufai called on the state government to establish a Disability Commission to be saddled with the responsibility of taking care of matters concerning people with special needs. 

Also speaking, Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Florence Oyeyemi, urged parents to take their children with special needs to specialized school where they will have access to affordable and quality education.

She warned parents to desist from keeping children with special needs behind closed doors.

Back to top button