DILI, 03 december 2020 (TATOLI)— The Executive Director of the Association of Disabled People of Timor-Leste (ADTL) Cesário da Silva said that people with disabilities must be involved in the development processes, whilst he delivers a speech at the commemoration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
“It is time for our Government to expand the process of development, in a way that counts on and includes people with disabilities,”
Cesário’s request applies to the entire population, “do not discriminate against each other because everybody needs one another whether it’s people with disabilities or not. Everyone has their advantage and disadvantages. I think this situation needs to have reflection and dialogue to ensure less discrimination in the future,” he explains.
He requests that the Government invests more into education for children with disabilities and vulnerable people in the community.
“There needs to be more relevant information delivered to teachers. We are worried about national policies which speak of the implementation of an inclusive society, where it states that everyone already has access to equal education. However, some of our people with disabilities are yet to see this access to ab ordinary education,” he said.
He reminds the country not to focus on their physical disabilities but focus on their ability to be involved in the process of development.
He wishes that People with disabilities will become motivators and inspiration to everyone.
He highlighted a point from the Ministry of Public Work and Clearance who implemented regulations to ensure that the construction of public and private businesses buildings in Timor Leste include access for people with disabilities a
During the Commemoration of World Disability days, ADTL requests that Leaders focus their attention to the people with disabilities to ensure that no one is left behind.
Journalist: Osória Marques
Editor: Cancio Ximenes/Nick Kettle
