PERSONS with disabilities (PWDs), who are especially dealing with cognitive infirmities, have been able to benefit from a four-day initiative aimed at empowering them.

National Commission on Disability (NCD) Advocacy and Communication Officer Avonel Corrica organised a number of activities beginning last Monday under the theme, “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality.”
Students with cognitive disabilities from St. Barnabus Special School, the Open Doors Vocational Training Centre and Sophia Special School were able to benefit from the programme.

Employment sessions were conducted by experts from the Ministry of Social Protection and empowerment sessions were conducted by Transformational Leader, Therapist, Professional Social Worker and Author Dr. Joy Wilson.

The sessions included how to build self-esteem; how to set and achieve goals; and problem solving, among others.

Leroy Phillips, who is blind, participated and shared some of his experience as a PWD with other participants. He was awarded bookmarks by Dr. Wilson for his remarks of encouragement.
According to Corrica, the commission continues to work to ensure inclusivity of programmes to empower PWDs and ensure services are available to them.

These include the training sessions available at the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and assistance in the area of employment that is offered through the Ministry of Social Protection Recruitment and Manpower Department.