Make them able

The International Day of Persons with Disability (December 3) is perhaps the best time to ponder on the state of the differently able people in Nepal. While there are many NGOs in Nepal that work in this area, there is no comprehensive data on disability. The rough estimate is that around 10 percent of the population suffers from some form of disability. Nepal, for the record, recognizes five categories of disability--visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically disabled, mentally disabled and mentally disordered. But recognition of the problem can only the first step towards solving it. In order to make meaningful changes in the lives of these people, the state must find innovative ways to safeguard their right to participate in all aspects of social life without discrimination. As important is to improve their limited access to health services, education and employment opportunities.



Formally, the UN observed December 3 as the International Day of the Disabled Persons. But since 2007, the day has been marked as the International Day of Persons with Disability. This change in nomenclature was not cosmetic. It was prompted by the realization that the rights of those living with various forms of disability could be ensured only with a greater understanding of disability issues. This insight proved vital in mobilizing global support for the rights, well-being and the dignity of persons with disabilities. Thus, every year, countries around the globe work on a common theme to help these special people. This year’s is ‘Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development,’ with the sub-theme of mainstreaming people with disabilities, including women, children and youth. The overall objective of the program is to ultimately integrate people with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.



In line with this objective, it might not be a bad idea to set up a national institute for the empowerment of differently able people in Nepal. Such a body would be responsible for development of human resources, conducting researches and extending therapeutic services. Yet another timely intervention would be harnessing of information and communication technologies to meet their needs. Development of specialized software to translate sign language, conversion of local language to Braille, specialized vocational training, and other disability-tailored devices can significantly improve their employment opportunities, which is by no means a trivial matter.



In addition, the rights of the disabled must be protected through special legislation and innovative schemes. For instance, the free and compulsory elementary education which is implemented through ‘Education For All’ scheme should be made more inclusive to incorporate children with special needs. Up to 70 percent of the disabled people in Nepal are illiterate; 69 percent of them depend on family support. This is a sad state of affairs. It won’t change unless the way the Nepali society treats those with disabilities changes as well. All stakeholders of the society must realize that true national development is impossible without all sectors of the society on board.

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