March marks International Day Of Persons with Disabilities
Northern Divisional Planning officer Setareki Dakuiboca has advised people observing International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) that their talents and abilities despite having disability is what makes them unique.
National Council for Persons with Disabilities Labasa branch members, children and their parents from Bua and Savusavu led a march from ANZ Building to Labasa School for Special Education last Saturday.
He said this year’s theme was transformative solutions for inclusive development: The role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world, has particular resonance.
“To the children I want to say the keys of transformative solutions for your development lies in your own hands,” Mr Dakuiboca said.
“Do not let your age or disability hinder you from pursuing your dreams.”
He said the biggest disability was a bad mind set.
“Do not let your mindset stop you from pursuing your dreams- whether you want to be a doctor, a pilot, a chef or whatever you want to be, if you can dream it, you can achieve it,” he said.
“December 3 is IDPD, an annual occasion designated to join together to support people with disabilities in our communities, and raise awareness of the importance of creating a future where people with disabilities experience equal opportunity and face no barriers in all aspects of their lives.”
He added whether it be going about their day-to-day lives with adequate accessibility in their communities, joining the workforce, or being able to showcase their abilities and reach their goals without facing barriers.
“We have come a long way since 2018 when Fiji introduced the Rights of Persons of Disabilities Act and down the line, Fiji has opened up two other centres in the Northern and Western Division, and are rounding up reviews for the implementation plan,” he said.
“We have about 32 affiliates and 14 district communities nationwide and have reached more communities and Fijians than ever before.”
He said IDPD was an important occasion to see progress toward our common goal and that was to advance the rights of persons with disabilities.