03/12/2024
THIS IS A SPECIAL WRITE-UP TO COMMEMORATE THE 2024 IDPD
AUTHOR
AWAM USMAN
SMART RABIWU
A 200 LEVEL VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENT OF THE EQUITY CHAMBER
FACULTY OF LAW
GOMBE STATE UNIVERSITY (GSU)
Commemorating International Day of Persons with Disabilities by Awam usman.
As we approach December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities within our university community. Today, we gather to show our appreciation for the efforts made by the school management, the Office of the (Interdev), our desk officer, and other key stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to create a more inclusive environment.
This year's theme, "Amplifying Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future," resonates deeply with our university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Empowering individuals with disabilities to take on leadership roles is crucial for creating a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Challenges Faced by Persons with Disabilities
As we celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities, we must also acknowledge the challenges they face. These challenges can have a profound impact on their daily lives, affecting their ability to participate fully in academic and social activities.
Some of the key challenges faced by persons with disabilities in our university include:
1. Accessibility of Learning Materials: The lack of accessible learning materials, such as braille textbooks, in our libraries hinders the ability of students with visual impairments to compete on an equal footing with their peers.
2. Provision of Assistive Technology: The absence of pivotal equipment, such as braille embossers, makes it difficult for students with disabilities to access and process information effectively.
3. Financial Barriers: The high cost of tuition fees and other expenses can lead to school dropout among students with disabilities, exacerbating existing inequalities.
4. Inaccessible Examination Venues: The lack of accessible examination venues can create undue stress and anxiety for students with disabilities, compromising their ability to perform to the best of their abilities.
5. Limited Access to Computers: The unavailability of computers for examinations can hinder the participation of students with disabilities, perpetuating existing inequalities.
A Call to Action
As we commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we urge our university administration to take concrete steps to address these challenges. We request that the Vice Chancellor consider our pleas and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities.
Conclusion
As we celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities, we are reminded that every disability conceals an ability. We must recognize and amplify the leadership of persons with disabilities, empowering them to take on roles that shape our university community.
Let us work together to create a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable future for all. Thank you.
12:10 AM
