FAR too often, persons who are living with a disability/disabilities are shunned, ignored or forgotten by society. Navigating everyday life can be unnecessarily difficult and many are forced to depend on the kindness of strangers or the support of willing family members to execute simple tasks.

For many of them, staying within the confines of their homes is the best option, as to do otherwise is stressful, unsafe and time-consuming.

Because of various factors, many of them are unable to work. This puts them in a financially awkward position and in most cases, their pensions, public assistance and the cash or kind given by government, corporations and members of civil society are all they have to sustain themselves.

Things can take a turn for the worst in the blink of an eye if their condition requires urgent medical intervention or regular follow-up treatment.

Taking these issues and many others into consideration, the government of the day has put provisions in place to make life easier and more enjoyable for persons who fall into this category. From cash grants and bonuses to expedited access to public services to specially tailored skills programmes, life has been better for persons living with disabilities.

In the absence of statistical data, one can reasonably assume that in keeping with the list of registrants at the National Commission on Disability and other organisations catering to such needs, that most of the country’s PWDs are adults.

While provisions are made for the care and education of children, adults have to fend for themselves; something that is extremely difficult without money and support.

Since taking up her role as Guyana’s First Lady, Arya Ali has been playing her part. On several occasions she has personally lobbied private companies and pursued meaningful initiatives on behalf of these persons. Employment was her aim.

Recently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali disclosed that during next year, the country’s first innovative job-development programme for persons living with disabilities will commence operation.
He went further to stress the government’s commitment to ensuring that all Guyanese have access to opportunities and that technology is used to create that accessibility.

This is all part of the government’s comprehensive plan to give every Guyanese an equal opportunity to earn and to contribute to the growth of the economy, their own welfare and their families.

The President’s position is a reminder that no one will be left behind as Guyana’s forges ahead in the quest to cement its place in the world.

Over the last three years, persons living with disabilities have been presented with opportunities to enhance their lifestyles. They have been able to cushion the rising cost of living and access improved health care and government services.

While we must adopt an attitude that reflects kindness and empathy, there are strong indications that better things are in store for them in the years ahead. The comments and actions of President Ali have provided certainty that by the end of 2024, persons living with disabilities will be living a more comfortable life.